Providing Answers, Support and Hope in Georgia

Thirty-One Faces of Hope: Chandra Heard

The lupus community includes people living with lupus, friends, family and supporters across Georgia. For Lupus Awareness Month, we would like to highlight some of our lupus heroes and champions. 

Meet Chandra Heard

In 1990 I started having rashes, bruising, swelling, and extreme fatigue symptoms. After several visits to the Dr., On one appointment I ran into a physician on the elevator who happened to be on call for my Dr. He changed my life when he asked if I knew what LUPUS was. Unfortunately, I was somewhat familiar with it because my cousin had recently passed away from the disease. And all I knew was it killed her. And that was 34 years ago!

After graduating High School, I proudly served in the United States Army for 9 years. In 2005, I joined the Order of Eastern Stars and became more active in my charity work. Like many other Lupus survivors, I cannot work due to my disabilities, so I dedicate myself to advocacy, community service, and departments within the sorority. Having earned certifications in nursing assistant, phlebotomy, registered medical assistant, and practical nurse, I continue to pursue my passion for helping others.

The day-to-day challenges of managing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus for me have been immensely challenging for 34 years now. I have endured many life-altering experiences as I suffer from SLE, Stage 4 chronic kidney disease & Lupus Nephritis, Sjogren’s, and Fibromyalgia, among other autoimmune diseases and various ailments. Each day is a different day; some days I struggle but through my love for life, my daughter, and my family I can persevere because my faith in G-d has shown me thus far that… I CAN get through. I value my support system in my friends, fellow Lupus warriors & my amazing sisterhood of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc. As an advocate for myself, my daughter, and the entire Lupus community, it is imperative that I maintain my commitment to the cause. Being a Glamorous woman of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc. and having a supportive family foundation gives me a sense of purpose and helps me cope with the effects of Lupus. I will continue to “Unmask the Faces of Lupus” in every capacity.

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsor

Choosing to prioritize your kidney health might be uncomfortable, but the reality is that up to 30% of people who live with lupus nephritis may experience kidney failure, which can lead to dialysis or even a kidney transplant. Luckily, there are steps you can take now that may help, such as scheduling routine tests and asking your doctor about treatment options. Talk to your doctor to learn more about routine testing and treatment.

Learn more about their GET UNCOMFORTABLE campaign.