1 minute read
Jasmine Allen-Stone
Everyday someone is diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), a mysterious disease. I was diagnosed in 2010 with the disease. It took me years to accept what had happened in my life after my diagnosis - knowing that there were no answers as to the cause of lupus and worse, no cure. I attended some support groups here and there, but I was broken in more ways than one. I would ask God, “why me?” And it’s the same response, “Why not you?” Now there’s Covid, all these people are dying, some in the healthiest state....finally, I realized that instead of wallowing in my depression, I needed to get up and get active. Support the fight to find a cure and surround myself with those who understand, as well as educate those who do not. I also want to be a light for my son who is Autistc. Someone he can look to in times of discouragement. I want to show him that you can overcome any obstacle with bravery and determination.
It took me a long time to accept what was going on with my health. And I mean a long time. I hardly ever went to the doctor as a child or young adult. I went two years with joint pain, fatigue, and inflammation before a doctor could figure out what was happening. The medical community made me feel as if I was a hypochondriac, just making stuff up.
Anyhow, things changed right after I had my first son in 2008. It’s been tough, but I’m still blessed because I read about and see what others (including my mother-inlaw) go through with this and I try to remember it could be worse. Lupus has put me in the hospital a few times. I still don’t know how I got this disease. No one in my immediate family has it to my knowledge. This is why I decided to help raise funds through the Walk to End Lupus Now® to go towards research and hopefully, one day, find a cure.
