Six Days, One Mission: Curtis’s Journey with the Virtual 6 Challenge
Curtis’s connection to lupus is deeply personal—rooted in a commitment to honoring his late daughter, Rashara. After her passing, Curtis and his family transformed their grief into purpose, raising awareness and building community through the Virtual 6 Challenge. With heart, determination, and the support of those around him, Curtis continues to honor Rashara while inspiring others to take action in the fight against lupus.
What is your lupus connection?
Rashara DeLynn Walker, (my daughter) was diagnosed with lupus approximately nine years ago. We believe that she may have had lupus since her freshman year (1995) in college. It took them until 2019 or so for her to be diagnosed.
What were the symptoms that finally led to her diagnosis?
Her symptoms were pain, tiredness, achy joints, and headaches.
Do you remember what receiving the lupus diagnosis was like for Rashara?
She was finally relieved to know that her pain had a name. However, she was also frightened as to what that meant for her health and well-being. She did not know what lupus was.
Getting involved with lupus awareness
How did you first become involved in raising awareness for lupus? What made you want to get involved?
I first became involved after the death of my daughter. She was forty-four years old and had a seven-year-old daughter at the time of her death. My wife and I are now her guardians. I found out that lupus affects African American women more than any other group and wanted to do more. That's when I found out about the Virtual 6 Challenge.
Why should others get involved with raising lupus awareness?
We need to encourage others to get involved because African Americans and minorities are at a greater risk. There needs to be more research and funds directed at our communities to assist people with this very painful and deadly disease. I was so happy to hear that the government has allocated more money than ever towards lupus research in the budget this year. It takes a long time for an individual to be diagnosed with lupus and currently there is no cure. Therefore, we have organized DeLynn’s Dashing Squad to encourage people to give. Rashara loved to run. Before she died, she was able to complete a half-marathon. We crossed the finish line together. Her brother, Curtis Jr., gave us the name because she was an avid runner. So, therefore people should get involved to raise awareness.
The Virtual 6 Challenge
What inspired you to participate in the Virtual 6 Challenge?
We were inspired to participate in the Virtual 6 Challenge as a family after the death of Rashara, June 21, 2022. We did not know about the Virtual 6 Challenge until then.
What was your first Virtual 6 Challenge like?
Our first Virtual 6 Challenge was exciting, rewarding, and sad at the same time. We were happy to meet Stacey Clark and to get our church and family involved.
What is your favorite part(s) of participating in the Virtual 6 Challenge?
The actual Virtual 6 Challenge and getting people to donate to the lupus cause.
What are you most looking forward to this year?
I am looking forward to the date change. It will be a little colder and not so warm as in June. I also want to do better each year—raise more money each year. I would like to add that Stacey Clark has been very helpful and a great encourager and organizer.
Anything else you would like to add? Tips, advice, etc.
I would simply advise people to set aside the time to spend one hour for lupus by walking, swimming, running, biking, etc.
Like Curtis, you can take action by joining the Virtual 6 Challenge. Whether you run, walk, swim, bike, or move in your own way, every activity helps raise awareness about lupus and supports critical research and programs. Join the Virtual 6 Challenge March 24-29 and Conquer Your 6 to End Lupus. Register today at lupus.org/virtual6.