My initial symptoms were widespread pain, joint pain, butterfly rash, migraine, hair loss, extreme fatigue, nausea and fever. As bad as it sounds I was thankful because it took all of about 3 minutes to get a diagnoses. And about 3 months total to run all the blood tests to confirm it. My most difficult symptoms now are EXTREME sun sensitivity. I absolutely cannot go out in the day time so I had to switch to a night schedule. I also had to make a room in my walk in closet because that is the only light proof room available.

I manage my symptoms by being proactive about my self-care. I rest a lot, get massages, exercise end try to eat right. I also got a puppy. He is amazing and gives me a friend because everyone is gone all day so I am alone. He also motivates me because I have to make sure I take care of him. He has to walk, eat, drink and play so it forces me to be more active and involved.

Lupus took away my ability to work, I was a GM at a great business. I can no longer keep up with a job so I fill my time trying to help others. The advance in modern medicine gives me hope. With foundations such as the Lupus Foundation of America, I hold onto the hope that a cure will be found in my lifetime so I can have a bit of my old life back. Lupus took everything away from me, I won't let it take me away from my family.