Titilayo O. - Diagnosed at age 34

Dearest lupus champion,
This year has been a journey of trials and triumphs and I want to share my story with you. My hope is that it inspires you to keep going, no matter how hard the fight gets. You are stronger than you realize, and your battles will not defeat you.
A Year of Trials
It began in January when I sprained my leg coming down the stairs. For a month I couldn’t walk and relied on others for help. In February, I experienced sharp pelvic pain that lasted over 20 minutes. Tests revealed I had fibroids. As a lupus warrior every new health challenge comes with extra complications especially when you are already dealing with lupus flares. I underwent countless tests and saw multiple specialists, including a rheumatologist, dermatologist, endocrinologist, and ENT. During this time, I was also diagnosed with hypothyroidism.
By June, I noticed a rash on my face and a sore throat. The rash spread rapidly and on July 1st, I was rushed to the emergency room. With no beds available due to a cholera outbreak, I was referred to Federal Medical Centre. I passed out before arrival and woke up in the hospital, diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (Herpes Zoster shingles). While battling this, I was also managing ongoing lupus flares - the fatigue, joint pain, and unpredictable symptoms made recovery even harder. After three weeks, I was discharged and resumed clearance for my fibroid surgery.
August brought more challenges including a severe sore throat and ear infection that made speaking impossible. Writing on paper became my only way to communicate. Despite worsening fibroid pain and persistent lupus flares, I shuttled between hospitals multiple times a week. In September, sharp pelvic pain landed me in the emergency room again. Finally, on October 23rd, I underwent a successful myomectomy.
Holding On to Hope
These six months were some of the most physically and emotionally draining of my life, but I held on to hope. I believe in the covenant of LIFE, not death. Lupus will not defeat me, and it won’t defeat you either.
To every lupus warrior: you are not alone. Your pain is part of your success story, shaping you into someone stronger and more resilient. Life’s challenges are stepping stones to greatness.You are a champion, and champions never give up.
Keep fighting. Keep believing. I am rooting for you always.
With love
Titilayo