14th Annual Flight of the Butterflies- Butterflies of Hope Lupus Warrior Stories is a powerful celebration of strength, survival, and spirit. Through the eyes and hearts of lupus warriors, we share stories that often go unseen. Stories of pain, resilience, and triumph! These butterflies may have been battered by the storm, but they continue to rise, wings open, ready to soar.
At Lupus In Color, we honor each journey as a flight of courage and beauty, reminding the world that even in the midst of lupus, warriors still fly.
Flight of the Butterflies
Lupus Warrior Jessica Rastu
I was diagnosed in April of 2025. Before Lupus, life felt more predictable. I could make plans without constantly calculating my energy or worrying about how I might feel the next day. There was a sense of freedom in not having to think about my body all the time.Since my diagnosis, that’s changed. Life now requires more intention and flexibility. I’ve had to learn my limits, listen to my body, and accept that some days won’t go as planned. I’ve also had to rethink my future in ways I never expected. I’ve had to adjust my goals to reflect what I’m capable of while still holding onto the hope that I can still achieve them. That shift hasn’t been easy, but it’s pushed me to redefine success on my own terms.
While it’s been a difficult adjustment, it’s also made me more aware, more patient, and more appreciative of the moments when I do feel well.
One of the hardest parts has been feeling misunderstood. Lupus isn’t always visible, and there are days when I look “fine” but feel anything but. That disconnect can be isolating, especially when people don’t fully grasp what you’re going through. Because of that, I’ve turned to advocating on social media. Sharing my experience so others can better understand what living with Lupus really looks like. It’s given me a sense of purpose and connection, and it’s helped me feel less alone while hopefully helping someone else feel seen too.
I’ve found strength in learning to speak up for myself and in accepting that not everyone will understand, and that’s okay. I’m beyond grateful for the people who have truly listened and supported me. I’ve learned to slow down and focus on small comforts, resting without guilt, or just giving myself the space to breathe. I try not to fight my body, but instead work with it.
Advocating on social media has also become a big part of how I cope. Sharing my journey and connecting with others who understand brings a sense of purpose to the difficult moments. It turns something painful into something meaningful. Knowing that my experience might help someone else feel less alone, or more informed about Lupus, even getting diagnosed much sooner than anticipated because they are able to advocate for themselves.
What sustains me most is that balance. I allow myself to rest and heal, while also using my voice in a way that creates connection and awareness.
I would want someone who Is newly diagnosed to know, you’re going to hear a lot of information, and it can feel overwhelming but you don’t have to figure everything out at once. Take your time learning, and don’t be afraid to do your own research so you can better understand your body and your options. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel advocating for yourself. Just as important, find a community. Whether it’s online or in person, connecting with people who truly understand what you’re going through can make a huge difference. It reminds you that you’re not alone and gives you a space to ask questions, share experiences, and feel supported.
Your journey will be your own, and it may not look like anyone else’s, and that’s okay. It’s normal to grieve the life you expected, but know that a meaningful, full life is still possible. Be patient with yourself, listen to your body, and don’t be afraid to speak up for what you need.
Lupus may change the way your life looks, but it doesn’t take away your ability to build a life that still feels meaningful and fulfilling. There will be days that test you, and I mean REALLY test you, but there will also be moments of strength, connection, and joy that remind you who you are beyond your diagnosis.
Over time, you learn how to adapt, how to listen to your body, and how to create a new rhythm that works for you. And in that process, you may discover a strength and purpose you didn’t even know you had. Hold on to the fact that even in the uncertainty, there is still so much life to live and you are still capable of living it in your own way just at your own pace. You have a whole community who understands your pain, your strength, and your determination. And on the days you can’t keep going, we’ll be the ones to hold you up. This isn’t just your fight, this is our fight.And on the days you can’t keep going, we’ll be the ones to hold you up. This isn’t just your fight, this is our fight.
Lupus In Color Salutes you!
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!
PLEASE SHARE THIS FLIGHT ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA AND START THE BUTTERFLY JOURNEY SPREADING LUPUS AWARENESS!
#lupusincolor #flightofthebutterflies #lupuswarriors #butterfliesofhope