In memory of Kaishall A. – Diagnosed at age 11

My name is Nichole, and I was a caregiver to my daughter, Kaishall Alfred, who was diagnosed with lupus at age 11. This was a day, I will never forget. My daughter was born healthy but was always getting ill, her dad and I continued to bring her to different doctors and hospitals only to diagnose her with sinus issues, colds, and pneumonia. I finally got tired of it after Kay almost died due to a sinus surgery gone bad and an allergic reaction to the medications. I asked her doctors to refer her to a doctor who specialized in the issue areas Kay was experiencing. In New Orleans, doctors could pinpoint the problem, and a few months later we were asked to come in for test results and that was the first day I heard the word: lupus!

I did not know the meaning of lupus, but I heard doctors explain there was NO cure. Then our family’s journey began, and Kay's pain and healing started. I thought finally an explanation, but I didn't understand the walk we were about to take. Kay fought thirteen years: chemotherapy, lupus meds, kidney failure, lung issues, and finally dialysis, a word I would hate. When Kay started dialysis, our whole world changed and God called Kay home December 12, 2018 at age 24.

I am shattered and heartbroken. Anyone going through lupus and any caregiver, parent, family, support system, please understand that you can accomplish anything, you can overcome through God and love. There is HOPE! I as a mother, took the initiative to keep Kay's work going! JUST KNOW THAT FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION! AND YOU ARE A SURVIVOR!