In 2007, my life changed forever. At the time, I was a young mother to two beautiful children – a four-year-old boy and a two-year-old girl – when I was diagnosed with lupus, a rare and unpredictable autoimmune disease.
I still remember the crushing moment the doctor told me: “There is no cure.” Those words shattered my world. I felt lost and hopeless, as though my future had vanished in an instant.
It took more than eight months to determine what was wrong. I had gone from being a healthy, active woman to someone who could barely get out of bed – all after a simple sore throat. One morning, I woke up unable to put my feet on the floor. The next day, my ankles ached. Then it was my knees. Day after day, another joint was inflamed. Within a month, I could no longer dress myself, bathe, or even use the toilet without assistance. My body was turning against itself, and I had no idea why.
When the diagnosis finally came – systemic lupus erythematosus – I was terrified. At the time, patients were often told they might not live beyond the age of 35. I was only in my twenties, with two small children, and a future that suddenly felt incredibly uncertain.
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other vital organs. In my case, I had to deal with constant fatigue, swollen joints, and inflammation that made everyday tasks seem insurmountable.
Motherhood became particularly difficult. There were days I could barely lift my children or care for them the way I wanted to, but I pressed on, determined to keep going.
Years later, my condition worsened. I was diagnosed with Stage 5 lupus nephritis – a severe form of kidney inflammation caused by lupus. My kidneys were failing, and I faced the terrifying possibility of dialysis or even a transplant.
With aggressive treatment, medications, and lifestyle changes, I eventually entered remission. This brought a sense of normalcy and relief, giving me time to reconnect with family and friends and rediscover the joy of living.
But my challenges did not end there. As a result of long-term steroid use – common in lupus treatment – I developed avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip. Blood supply to the bone was compromised, causing it to weaken and collapse.
The solution was a bone graft – a major surgery requiring extensive physical therapy and recovery time. It was one of the most difficult periods of my life, but step by step, I regained my strength and mobility.
Today, I live with a deep sense of gratitude. Lupus is still part of my life, but it no longer defines me. I have found strength I never knew I had. I have become more compassionate, more resilient, and more appreciative of every moment. Though my journey continues, I now walk with purpose, positivity, and pride. I am a lupus warrior.
