Adina F. - Diagnosed at age 28

I first started showing symptoms of lupus at age 18 when I was a freshman at WSSU. I had to be hospitalized for a few days due to having a fever over 104 degrees and having a menstrual cycle for more than 30 days. While in the hospital, the doctors could not figure out what was wrong with me. Because I have always been overweight, many doctors attributed my joint pain, swollen joints, and chronic fatigue with being overweight. I even had several doctors to tell me that I needed to lose weight and seek therapy. When I was 28, I started seeing Dr. Russell Rothenberg (he has since retired). He would be the rheumatologist who I credit for saving my life. Dr. Rothenberg took the time to listen to me, perform the proper tests, and even shared my medical case with his counterparts to determine that I in fact had lupus as well as Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, Fibromyalgia, & Raynaud's Phenomenon.

My lupus affects my joints, brain and central nervous system, skin, and I have alopecia. I have daily headaches and migraines. I have had 3 TIAs (mini strokes) and seizures. However, despite everything, I am grateful. While lupus has taken quite a toll on me physically, I still am blessed to work full time and I still find ways to enjoy life.
 

I have learned to be an advocate for myself and others. Lupus did not break me. Instead, it has made me stronger. It has also opened up a community where I can be of support to others who have lupus.