I understand how this Lupus Warrior feels and I applaud her for getting this issue out to the public. But, we as warriors must NOT allow anyone to make us feel like we are unworthy or a freak. We have to work at keeping our own self esteem up and stay encouraged beyond the ignorance of others. When we are faced with situations we have to remember that everyone does not know about lupus, so we can’t automatically assume they are trying to be hurtful in their approach to us. When we encounter people that don’t understand or know about lupus it is our duty to educate them to empower ourselves.
73% of Americans between the ages 18-34 have either not heard about lupus or know little or nothing about lupus beyond the name.
Judgements and discrimination because of scars from lupus is real. Not just at the nail shop but at the grocery store, at the mall, at the movie theater. Lupus Warriors even face these same judgements and issues at hospitals and their doctors offices. All because many still do not know what lupus is. All because many continue to believe that lupus may be in someone’s head. All because people are not educated enough to understand lupus’ burdens. Another added mental strain to fighting lupus.
Video courtesy Fox11 Laguna California
For the record:
Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease which causes inflammation of various parts of the body, especially the skin, joints, blood and kidneys. The immune system normally protects the body against viruses, bacteria and other foreign material. In an autoimmune disease, like lupus, the immune system loses its ability to tell the difference between foreign substances and its own cells and tissues. The immune system then makes antibodies directed against itself.
Lupus is NOT infectious, rare, or cancerous.
Lupus is more prevalent than AIDS, sickle-cell anemia, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and cystic fibrosis combined.
Some individuals have or will develop a type of skin disease, called cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Skin disease in lupus can cause rashes or sores (lesions), most of which will appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, arms, and legs.
#LupusInColor #Educate #Inspire #Encourage #Empower
