Hello and thanks for visiting my Lupus Loop fundraising page.

Lupus is a chronic, inflammatory disease in which the body's immune system attacks it's own, healthy tissues and organs.  It is almost like you are allergic to yourself.  There is no cure and there have been no new medications approved for the treatment of lupus symptoms in over 50 years.

I was diagnosed with lupus a little over 4 years ago on my 37th birthday, though some of my symptoms were present in my early teens.  At the time of my diagnosis, I mostly just suffered from joint pain and mild fatigue.  In the past year I have also been diagnosed with brain lesions and liver problems as well as increased fatigue and joint pain.  Sun exposure exacerbates my symptoms - not good with an eleven and nine year old at home.

After being diagnosed I researched information on the internet, joined my local support group and finally decided to quit my job and work for the Lupus Foundation of PA in the Harrisburg branch (we just moved to 218A W. Governor Road in Hershey).  Instead of sitting back and letting lupus get the best of me, I wanted to do something to help kick lupus's butt, lol.

Please join me in any way you can to help make the 12th annual lupus loop on City Island a huge success.  We need a cure for this horrible disease.

Thanks much,

Em.