Hi, my name is Paige. I am 21 now, but I was diagnosed with DLE Lupus (discoid lupus erythematosus) when I was 15. I started getting these rashes on my face and ears after I got a really bad sunburn after snow skiing. I then began to want to sleep all the time. I would go to bed so early and still feel tired when I would awake the morning after.
My mom cried when she heard what I had, and I thought I was going to die. Cancer is very prominent in my family, so at first I thought it was something like that. I was a very active child; I have been playing soccer all my life.
I actually still play soccer for a Division 1 University. We have practice in the middle of the day so I have to make sure I wear lots of sunscreen. I actually have sunscreen everywhere; in my car, my purse, my house, my soccer bag, even in my parent’s car.
I have overcome this lupus and it doesn’t rule my life. I get blood drawn all the time, but I am used to it by now. Be strong ladies, and don’t forget to smile.
Paige
Texas
Submitted 10-5-2012
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 article is intended to convey general educational information and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.