Learn more about Erin McEvoy's inspiring journey as she navigates the challenges of lupus, from managing symptoms to building a support network. Gain insights from her unique perspective as a pharmaceutical marketing strategist, advocating for those living with chronic conditions like lupus.

I often tell people that “lupus is the disease that keeps on giving.” And like some of the odd things you receive in a white elephant gift exchange, most of these "gifts" (hair loss, rashes, brain fog, fatigue, etc.) are really not wanted. 

Managing this chronic condition is often physically exhausting and emotionally overwhelming. And just when you think you have everything under control, another frustrating side effect or associated condition pops up and requires a whole new challenge to handle. I realized the other day that I see almost all of the "---ologists" at this point in my life. I joke with my physicians that I keep them in business. 

I’m incredibly fortunate to have a loving and supportive network of family and friends to help me navigate this disease. I can never thank my husband enough for all that he does to compensate for what I can’t do. And I appreciate the grace I receive from my friends when I cancel plans at the last minute because I'm not up to leaving the house. I'm also very grateful for the relationships I've built with all of those “ologists” - especially my rheumatologist.

 It has taken a long time to find doctors who understand and advocate for me, and I always recommend to other people that they not be shy or find a different physician if they aren't receiving the attention or type of care they need. 

In my professional life, I am a pharmaceutical marketing strategist. In this role, I dive deep into diseases and their treatments to understand patient/provider journeys and pain points, and then develop solutions to address them. This is one area where I feel like my lupus diagnosis has been beneficial because I bring the perspective of someone with a chronic condition who has had to make difficult decisions about treatment options, side effects, cost implications, etc. 

Last year I became an ambassador for the Lupus Foundation of America. The experience has been overwhelmingly wonderful. 

Meeting others who manage the challenges that lupus brings, is inspirational and uplifting. Every time we meet I am blown away by the powerful positivity and energy that radiates from the group, filling my bucket and sending me away with hope and confidence that one day we will find a cure for this devastating condition.