THE 12TH ANNUAL FLIGHT OF THE BUTTERFLIES
Butterfly Flight Charlotte Mckissick
My name is Charlotte Mckissick and I am 65 years of age. I retired early from work early because as my symptoms increased I could not stand hours on end. In 7 years I had over 25 procedures including 4 joint replacements and have Chronic Kidney Disease associated with SLE. I was diagnosed 1998 in Bay Area California after being sick with several symptoms for years following a hysterectomy at age 33.
The hardest part of having lupus, aside from the invisible aches and pains as well as the brain fog and fatigue is the constantly changing symptoms. And the doubt you see on people’s faces and being told wow you look fine.
The greatest thing I’ve taken away in this journey is to advocate and educate. I share my stories with others to offer hope and support. Even without a cure there can be remission from episodes or flares.
Controlling stress and thinking positive as well as eating right has changed my life. I listen to my body today. If I’m in a flare I stop all outside interference and practice self care. Knowing I’m not alone helps. I’m part of a village.
One piece of advice I would give newly diagnosed is to ask questions. Don’t stop till you get answers.
Analyze your body’s reactions to outside and internal messages. keep a diary write down your questions. Don’t ever let yourself be sidelined as a hypochondriac what you feel and experience is real. Stress is the number impedes healing just say no.
Faith keeps me strong. The faith that I’m doing the best I can with what I have. Self talk and self love. I overcome all the odds every single day that I don’t succumb to fear uncertainty and insecurity.
Lupus In Color Salutes you Charlotte Mckissick! YOU ARE BRAVE, COURAGEOUS, AMAZING and STRONG TO SHARE YOUR STORY.
YOUR BUTTERFLY WINGS ARE FLUTTERING, YOUR CHIN IS UP, YOUR ARMS ARE EXTENDED AND YOUR CHEST IS OUT! FLY ON BUTTERFLY!
FLY ON!
#lupusincolor #butterfliesofhope #flightofthebutterflies #Brave #Courageous #Strong #spreadinglupusawareness #onebutterflyatatime #flyonbutterfly
