‘Make Lupus Visible’ on World Lupus Day

THE LUPUS Foundation of Jamaica (LFJ) continues its fight in ensuring that Jamaicans ‘Make Lupus Visible’, as the world observes World Lupus Day on Friday, May 10.

World Lupus Day is observed annually on May 10, with the aim to raise awareness about the debilitating autoimmune disease which affects both men and women of all ages.

The foundation will be leading the observation in Jamaica with a special social awareness campaign consisting of a range of activities by members and supporters across the island. These activities, which are open to the public, will assist with helping everyone to understand the lupus, as well as how to show support to persons affected by it.

The activities will culminate tomorrow with awareness walks across the island from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by a free health fair at Emancipation Park in Kingston, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., in association with the National Health Fund (NHF). The fair will feature free health checks and demonstrations; special guests and speakers discussing topics related to lupus in Jamaica, and an outside broadcast by Kool FM.

“The Lupus Foundation of Jamaica looks forward to World Lupus Day each year. Although we have an international day for recognition, we spend quite a lot of time throughout the year supporting our ‘Lupus Warriors’ in various ways,” said Dr Desiree Tulloch-Reid, president of the LFJ.

“We have been at the forefront of the fight against lupus since 1984. As a member-based, volunteer-run organisation, we are dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by providing support, education, and advocating for their needs, to ensure those affected can survive and even thrive,” she continued.

“This year is also very significant to us, as the foundation is celebrating its 40th anniversary. During the event, we will be unveiling our specially designed anniversary logo, as well as a balloon release with our colours, purple and gold,” she added.

Lupus is a serious autoimmune disorder that affects thousands of Jamaicans. It is a condition where the body’s immune system becomes dysfunctional, attacking its own tissues and organs, leading to illness. Lupus can be mild to severe, and can have varied effects on different individuals – at times, with life-threatening complications.

“It’s important that Jamaicans understand what lupus is so that proper diagnosis can be made early and treatment can begin sooner. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes for those suffering with the disease,” said Dr Tulloch-Reid.

The Lupus Foundation of Jamaica encourages everyone to join them in celebrating World Lupus Day tomorrow by wearing purple – the colour associated with lupus awareness.

“This World Lupus Day, we invite everyone across the island to join us in our fight against this debilitating disease. By working together, we can make sure that no one living with lupus feels forgotten or alone,” Dr Tulloch-Reid said.

The Lupus Foundation of Jamaica is a non-profit organisation dedicated to helping those living with lupus in Jamaica. In addition to providing services through its resource centre, the foundation educates physicians and other healthcare professionals about lupus through its outreach programme, while providing free public seminars and webinars throughout the year.

Persons who wish to support financially, can do so by visiting the donation page at lupusfoundationjamaica.org/donations. All donations go directly towards supporting patients, as well as aid in the public education campaigns, medical professional education and research efforts.

To learn more about the foundation, its activities and support resources, visit www.lupusfoundationofjamaica.org.