Spotlight: Keeping Lupus Fresh on the Mind

May is Lupus Awareness Month

It is a time when we rally together to shine a spotlight on this often misunderstood and invisible disease. Let’s dive into what Lupus Awareness Month is about and how you can get involved! 🌟

1. What Is Lupus Awareness Month?

   • Lupus Awareness Month, observed throughout May in the United States, is a dedicated time to increase understanding and knowledge about lupus, an autoimmune disease. This month, various events, campaigns, and initiatives are organized to educate communities, dispel myths, and advocate for individuals impacted by lupus. The goal is to raise awareness about the symptoms, treatments, and challenges of living with lupus and to promote support and research efforts to improve the lives of those affected by this complex and often misunderstood condition.
   • Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can impact various organs and systems in the body. While its symptoms are not always visible outside, they can wreak havoc internally, affecting physical health, emotional well-being, and financial stability. Due to the unpredictable nature of the disease, many individuals with lupus struggle with daily activities, work, and relationships.

2. How Can You Make Lupus Visible?

   • Your involvement is crucial. By spreading the word about lupus, you are raising awareness and fostering a supportive community for those living with it. Let your friends, family, and social media followers know what lupus is, how it affects people, and what we can collectively do to support those living with it. Purple Pledge: Sign the Purple Pledge to raise awareness of lupus year-round. Even when the pain is invisible, we can make a difference by acknowledging its impact.
   • Social Media: Share your story! Use social media to talk about your connection to lupus. Here are some sample posts:
     • “Did you know that May is #LupusAwarenessMonth? Join me in making lupus visible by raising awareness about this chronic autoimmune disease. Learn more: ”
     • “Support efforts to advance lupus research, education, and support services by donating to the @LupusFoundationofAmerica during #LupusAwarenessMonth! Let’s put an end to this cruel disease together.”
   • Put on Purple: On World Lupus Day (May 10th), wear purple to show your support and solidarity. Let’s make lupus visible, even when it cannot be seen!

3. Get Involved!

   • Fundraise: Host a virtual fundraiser for Lupus Awareness Month. Whether it is on Facebook or through other channels, every contribution counts.
   • Advocate: Be a lupus advocate. Speak up, share information, and help dispel myths about lupus.
   • Walk to End Lupus Now: Participate in local walks or create your virtual walk to raise funds and awareness.
   • Corporate Involvement: Encourage your company and colleagues to join the cause. Let’s go purple for a purpose!

A Prayer for Strength: For Women with Lupus

In the quiet hours of the night,

When pain and fear come into sight,

I hear His voice, a gentle plea:

"Come unto me, and I’ll set thee free."

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

(Matthew 11:28)

Though weariness may grip my soul,

In Him, I know I'm truly whole.

His grace is sufficient for each day,

His strength shall guide me on my way.

"My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is perfect in weakness."

(2 Corinthians 12:9)

When my strength fades and hope feels dim,

I’ll trust in Him and lean on Him.

For He shall lift me, make me strong,

And carry me through trials long.

"He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength."

(Isaiah 40:29)

Though battles rage within this frame,

I’ll praise His holy, wondrous name.

For in His hands, I’m held secure,

And through His love, I shall endure.

"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters."

(Psalm 23:1-2)

Each day anew, His mercies rise,

A gift of grace beneath the skies.

So in His promise, I shall stay,

For He will walk with me each day.

"It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."

(Lamentations 3:22-23)

When weakness tries to steal my song,

I’ll find my strength in Christ alone.

For He is with me, this I know,

And in His love, I’ll boldly go.

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

(Philippians 4:13)

This poem encourages women affected by lupus by reminding them of God's promises and the strength found in His Word.