Since I can remember, summer was always the happiest time for me. Summer 2015 was both joyful and ominously peculiar. Days were filled with music, vibrant sun, and sweet, ice-cream-filled nights. But amid the joy, a friend pointed out swelling in my neck and head. I dismissed it. Then, a persistent pain in my wrist spiraled into weeks of agony, making me don a brace. Still, I didn’t consult a doctor.

The situation escalated - seizures, vomiting, and frightful fevers peaking at 104 degrees made me capitulate to seeking medical help. Doctors found fluid in my chest and abdomen, inflamed lymph nodes on my body’s left, and exhaustion permeating every cell. I seemed like a lymphoma patient. After a secluded week in the hospital, the diagnosis was confirmed: Lupus. Alive but emotionally shattered, I felt a mixture of relief, confusion, and brokenness.

 

Months later, a beacon of support shone through - The Lupus Foundation of America. Attending their support groups morphed into leading one myself, creating San Diego's first LFA support group. From that moment, my journey unfurled into advocating, encouraging, hosting educational events, and becoming an ambassador. I found solace in ensuring no one felt the loneliness I once did.

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Remembering moments marred by darkness, shame, and a fear of never being loved or fulfilling dreams propels me forward. I had to understand: my limitations were mental barricades, not dictated by Lupus. My voice would only be stifled if I allowed it, and love could only be withdrawn if I perceived it to be so. When this realization dawned, reaching out to others, to elevate them to their potential became imperative. Hence, I urge others to transform into ICONs:

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• I - Inspire: Be a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing your story, and uplifting others.

• C - Courage: Showcase unwavering bravery, navigating each Lupus day with determined spirit.

• O - Overcome: Tackle Lupus challenges by armoring yourself with education, support, and apt management.

• N - Nurture: Shower your mind and body with self-love and compassion, ensuring your well-being is paramount in your Lupus journey.
  
   

Join me as we traverse this Lupus journey together, sharing stories, understanding its multifaceted impact, and uplifting each other to stay strong, be iconic, and keep fighting.