Columns

Acknowledge, Embrace the Strength That Comes in Numbers

Since I began writing this column, I’ve had many people reach out to me. Sometimes it’s because an article deeply resonated or helped them express something for the first time. Occasionally readers will deliver a virtual hug because what I’ve described is too familiar and hits close to…

More Than Just a Number

Medicine can’t tell you much about lupus, but it loves to throw out facts. If you Google lupus right now, a range of statistics will pop up. According to Monash University, lupus affects 5 million people worldwide. It’s most predominate in the 15-44 year old age…

Dear Potential Partner, Thanks for Understanding

We haven’t been seeing each other very long, and honestly I’m still undecided as to whether you’re “Mr. Right,” “Mr. Right Now,” or something between. But regardless of the context we’re in, the prospect of this new relationship simultaneously excites me and scares me; while there’s so…

Do You ‘Celebrate’ Lupus Awareness Month?

May is Lupus Awareness Month, and walks and awareness campaigns are well underway. I am taking over the Instagram for The Lupus Foundation of Northern California, and I’m excited about it! It made me wonder about this month’s festivities. Last year I did my very first walk…

The Ebb and Flow of Lupus Fatigue

More and more I’m learning that with lupus, nothing has any kind of permanency. I have days free of fatigue, and I feel so good that I question whether I’m really chronically ill. But those days never last. Not long after, I find myself hit with another…

Pass the Veggies: How Lupus Led Me to Give Up Meat

Sushi is one of my favorite foods, and I used to indulge in a great steak every so often. Surf and turf was something I truly enjoyed, especially if lobster was involved. All of that changed once I was diagnosed with lupus. One of the first things…

Five Ways to Simplify Life With Lupus

We live in an age where simpler has become better, yet again. A quick Google search will pull up hundreds of articles on how to simplify life, from having children to raising your aging parents. I have yet to come across one that helps those os us with…