Katie’s Story (Lupus)

I was diagnosed with Lupus SLE in January 2016. I am nearing the end of year one, and and what a year it has been. Like most of you, I had been seeing doctors for over a year prior to being diagnosed. Test after test, lab after lab, and they weren’t able to determine what was wrong.

Finally, in January of 2016, I visited a rheumatologist who came highly recommended. I went in thinking I just had a connective tissue disorder, and she would give me some medication, and it would be gone in a week or so. Boy, was I wrong. ANA results, hemoglobin levels, Vitamin D levels. Whoa! Now the trials of medication begin. I was already taking medication for migraines and vertigo. I never in a million years thought I would spend one evening a week sorting pills in order to maintain a “normal” life.

First medication wasn’t providing results, so we moved on. I am now a couple of weeks away from beginning infusions. I have felt like a pin cushion and a guinea pig being poked and prodded and studied. I have had my weak moments, where I just wanted to be done. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. I wanted to feel good again. I wanted to be “normal.” But reality slapped me in the face, and I realized that I have to fight. I have to fight for myself, my kids, my family. I am stronger than Lupus. I will continue to put on a brave face every day and maintain a sense of normalcy in my life. I will continue to work full-time, long hours, and I will fight. I will Win.

Katie
Indiana
Submitted 11/11/2016

The informational content of this article is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

This story is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.