Lamaia E. - Diagnosed at age 25

My lupus story began before I had a name for what was happening to me.

I was dealing with hair loss, changes to my scalp, skin irritation, rashes, and fatigue that affected my entire body. The changes to my hair and skin were difficult because they affected how I saw myself. I was already trying to manage motherhood, school, my mental health, and everyday responsibilities while my body was doing things I did not understand.

On October 7, 2025, I learned that lupus was part of my life. A scalp biopsy later supported a diagnosis of cutaneous, or discoid, lupus. My bloodwork did not show systemic lupus, but that does not make my condition less real. Cutaneous lupus can cause painful skin lesions, discoloration, scarring, and permanent hair loss when it affects the scalp.

I was prescribed medication to help manage the condition. Since then, I have been learning how important treatment, regular monitoring, sun protection, rest, and paying attention to my body can be.

Lupus has affected more than my skin and hair. It has affected my confidence, emotional health, energy, and ability to show up as the mother, student, and woman I want to be. Some days are harder than others, especially when the symptoms are not visible to anyone else.

I am sharing my story because women deserve to be taken seriously when they say something is wrong. We deserve answers, proper treatment, support, and the freedom to speak honestly about what chronic illness takes from us.

I am still learning how to live with lupus, but I am also learning that a diagnosis does not erase who I am. I hope sharing my experience helps another woman feel understood, ask questions, seek medical care, and know that she is not alone.