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As the military has seen an increase in the number of women in active duty the last 40 years, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of lupus in the ranks. Out of the over 200,000 women who serve, over 50% are women of color, mostly black and Hispanic. We already know that…

Do you think you may have lupus?  Understanding the complex, multi-step process of getting a lupus diagnosis is one of the most common questions we get and there is no easy answer. The goal of this blog is to describe the most common aspects of the diagnosis process so that you can approach your healthcare practitioner…

  Lupus may present itself in different ways and virtually no two people will have the exact same symptoms nor the exact same treatment plans. It’s important for all of us – whether or not we have lupus – to get beyond our first impression of this chronic illness and get to know it on…

Our use of the term “kaleidoscope” is purposeful in characterizing the many diverse and shifting medical facets and symptoms of lupus as an illness as well as describing the variety and beauty of those living with the disease. Introduction Why is lupus a kaleidoscope Disease Scleroderma Rheumatoid Arthritis Mixed Connective Tissue Disease Raynaud’s Phenomenon Sjogren’s…

As someone with lupus, you may feel like you’ve exhausted all of your options for symptom relief. You may have grown weary of trying one prescription after another and while you may experience some benefits, it may not be enough. You may still find yourself struggling with the aches, pains and stiffness that comes with…

Estimated to be worth over $210 billion by 2026, the complementary and alternative medicines’ market has taken off like wildfire as many seek a wide variety of ways to fight the ravages of illness and stress. Many swear by the curative powers of practices such as massage therapy and acupuncture as ways to assist in…

I was diagnosed with lupus in 2001. At the time, I was in my mid-twenties and scared to death of being diagnosed with a lifelong illness. I remember feeling so powerless, alone and frightened of what it would mean for the life ahead of me. I did not know it then, but realize now, that…

It is normal to feel overwhelmed at times. You may feel stressed, anxious, depressed or even angry. Emotions are a part of life, yet at times they are overwhelming.  When you have lupus, a flare, especially when you’ve been feeling pretty decent, can throw you for a loop.  A new diagnosis of lupus comes with…

Sometimes the hardest part of telling others that you have lupus is managing how they deal with your news. Read more about the complex emotions that can arise from a lupus diagnosis. Introduction Fear of the Unknown Vulnerability Trust Jealousy Guilt and Shame In Conclusion   Introduction Having a chronic disease like lupus can be difficult, to say the…

Advocating for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) when you are dealing with its symptoms can seem daunting. There are ways you can advocate, however, that still can garner the attention this chronic illness needs while taking care of yourself in the process. Introduction Preparing Yourself for Advocacy The Many Shapes of Advocacy In Conclusion Introduction When…