Sylvia F. - Diagnosed Age 31

I was a young mother, wife and had a full time job. I noticed that I became very fatigued, sore, and had a lot of swelling. I asked myself, was this normal? It wasn't. I eventually collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. It was at this 14 day hospital stay that I learned about Lupus, and I had it. Of course I was in disbelief and I knew right then I had to take the appropriate measures to live healthy. I changed my diet, habits and lifestyle. I continually suffer from Lupus, but have managed to know my flare ups and I just take it easy. It was and is life-changing. However I tell myself daily. I have Lupus, Lupus doesn't have me.

My faith has been my sounding board and my bridge over troubled water. Faith keeps me steady, my love for people and life. I live to advocate and tell the world we can do this. Supporting the Lupus Foundation is one step closer to finding a cure. Give to support lupus research.