Providing Answers, Support and Hope in Missouri, Southern Illinois, & Kansas

Dear Friends,

As I begin my first term as the new Chair of the Board of Directors for the Lupus Foundation of America, Heartland Chapter, I wanted to introduce myself. I have been on the Heartland Chapter Board for four years and was honored to be asked to serve as the Chair of the Board.  

I am an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Adult & Pediatric Rheumatology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. The Heartland Chapter has been a key partner in our efforts as physicians caring for lupus patients. Without them, many of our pediatric patients would never know another person with lupus, never develop their knowledge about their disease, and never mature as advocates for themselves and others. Many of the patients we refer to the Heartland Chapter become volunteers themselves, working to grow a community of support in our region. 

I encourage my patients to attend the chapter's Summer Jam Youth Retreat and they come back from camp and tell me how important it is to them and the other girls who attend.  

Watch the Summer Jam Youth Retreat Video

It has certainly been a challenging year. Our local nonprofit organizations have been hit especially hard by this pandemic, including the Heartland Chapter. I want to thank our dedicated staff who have worked tirelessly to help people living with lupus connect to the resources, information, and support they need to live well with this devastating disease under such difficult circumstances.  

Our Board of Directors have come together like never before to make certain that the Heartland Chapter makes it through this pandemic and economic downturn stronger, and more committed than ever to accomplishing our mission.  

But we need your help. Please consider making a year-end donation of $25, $50, $100 or more. You might also want to become a part of our Circle of Heroes with a donation of $500 or more  (see details below). Whatever gift you can give, small or large, will help us continue to provide the help and support people with lupus need now, and moving forward. 

Best Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season, 

Austin M. Dalrymple, DO, FAAP, FACR 
Chair of the Board 
Lupus Foundation of America, Heartland Chapter

Donate $25 or more and receive a limited edition Lupus Foundation of America Face Mask while supplies last.