Alexis Teixeira was diagnosed with lupus at age 14. Although the disease ran in her family, she struggled many years to get diagnoses as well as dealing with multiple autoimmune disorders.

Approximately five years ago, she met her husband Luis. At the time, she was flare free, undergoing routine exams and living life to the fullest. Shortly after they were married, she became pregnant with their daughter Gianna. Partially due to lupus, she had a high-risk pregnancy and developed pre-eclampsia. Gianna was born prematurely and weighed only four pounds. She is doing amazing now and about to celebrate her 4th birthday.

Around this time, Alexis’ husband Luis realized how serious the condition was and recognized the need for greater awareness. As a rally driver, Luis regularly participates in events in the northeast, and his race team – Wicked Nasty Motorsports – and On the Verge Racing incorporated purple in to the team colors to symbolize lupus awareness.

Their family has become very vocal in supporting and spreading Lupus awareness.

"So often we overlook the loved ones of those suffering from lupus who are living through the difficult experiences with them. Luis' effort to raise awareness is a good example for our community, everyone can do something to help,” says Alexis.