Madeline W. - Diagnosed at age 19

My daughter Madeline was diagnosed with lupus several weeks before her freshman year of college last year. As her mom and a nurse, I had been putting the pieces of the puzzle together for months- overwhelming fatigue, a rash that the dermatologist treated as acne, joint pain and stiffness. When she went to her well check at the pediatrician, I politely but adamantly asked for lupus testing to be done and my daughter's pediatrician listened. Her testing came back positive and that's when my daughter became a warrior!

My daughter was accepted to a college 9 hours away from home, a distance swimmer for a Division 2 college! How would she ever be able to swim 500, 1000, 1500 yards? She continued to train and swimming has been her saving grace, for her joints and her mental health. Her coach and team have been so supportive. She has had to learn when too much is enough. She exceled despite a hospitalization last Spring. She made dean's list and was awarded high point scorer and rookie of the year.

She still hasn't found the right combo of meds for her lupus, but works closely with her docs at home and at school. She speaks up for herself and is learning how to advocate and champion this disease. Lupus won't win. She will be featured on WBAL in Baltimore on 7/11 during their medical segment if you would like to learn more. Don't give up! Each day is a new challenge, but dream big and stay positive. You can do this! I am praying for a cure for all our lupus warriors and my #1! God bless!