Francheska A. - Diagnosed at age 16

I was born in Puerto Rico, raised as an Army brat, and after experiencing life in different places, I now call Puerto Rico home again. That background shaped me into someone adaptable, independent, curious, and resilient—qualities I never imagined I would need so much in my journey with lupus.

I was diagnosed with lupus at 16 after experiencing joint pain, fevers, and the butterfly rash. Over the years, lupus has gone through different seasons—sometimes quiet, sometimes demanding my full attention. One of my biggest flares happened in 2018, when lupus severely affected my skin. That period was especially difficult, but medication helped bring the disease under control and gave me a long period of improvement.

Then, in July 2026, I experienced another major flare, this time affecting my kidneys and leading to lupus nephritis. I was hospitalized, needed aggressive treatment, and eventually began treatment. 

This new chapter has required patience, close monitoring, frequent labs, infusions, and learning how to adjust my life while my body heals.

What I wish more people understood is how unpredictable lupus can be. Someone may be smiling, working, joking, or looking “fine” while dealing with medications, lab results, fatigue, fear, and uncertainty. Although lupus is often called an invisible illness, sometimes it becomes very visible through skin changes, swelling, hair loss, or medication side effects.

I am someone who likes to stay busy, solve problems, help others, ask a million questions, and keep moving. Lupus has taught me that strength can also mean resting, asking for help, accepting accommodations, and listening to my body. And yes, I will probably make a joke somewhere in the middle of it all—that is simply who I am.

I share my journey not because I have all the answers, but because if my experience helps someone feel less alone, ask a better question, or feel more prepared, then something meaningful came from a difficult chapter.

Lupus is part of my story, but it is not the whole story. I am still ambitious, still laughing, still dreaming, and still writing the rest.