Providing Answers, Support and Hope in Georgia

Thirty-One Faces of Hope: Kelli McDowell

The lupus community includes people living with lupus, friends, family and supporters across Georgia. For Lupus Awareness Month, we would like to highlight some of our lupus heroes and champions. 

Kelli McDowell

Lupus is a word that carries little to no meaning to most people. But to those living with lupus, physicians, researchers, and caregivers the word lupus represents so much more. Lupus is pain, fatigue, hair loss, medicine, struggle, and most of all unanswered questions. 

I want to believe that my journey with this disease over the last 12 years is not too different from other lupus patients. The symptoms and the side effects of the harsh medicines drive how I feel physically, from fatigue/pain to sun sensitivity to nauseousness! However, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually I feel remarkable. I know that with God on my side I will not fail! I have a "Krew" of family and friends that keep me uplifted and support me every step of the way! I approach every day brave and blessed! 

My commitment to fighting lupus is not only personal but inspired by the many people affected by this disease. The Georgia Chapter of the Lupus Foundation has given me a great sense of purpose in my fight. Volunteering at chapter events, programs, and in the office has given me an opportunity to meet others living with lupus and join the fight. I want to offer hope to others, spread the word, assist in fundraising efforts, and most of all end OUR suffering!

This fight ends when lupus is no longer claiming lives and leaving unanswered questions.

The truth is lupus changed my life, not as an expiration date or a death sentence but as the most humbling experience of a lifetime.

-Kelli McDowell