Sarah - Diagnosed Age 17

Growing up, lupus never crossed our vocabulary. My family and I never even knew what it as until I started missing school more frequently than most and feeling like I was in a constant battle with my own body. After several doctors and two misdiagnoses, I was finally diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. From then on, not a day went by where I wasn't feeling some type of pain or sadness. Whether it be from missing work, constant appointments and testing, or even hearing those dreaded words: "but you don't look sick."

No one truly and fully understands unless they also fight this nasty battle. Everything is a struggle. But I just have to keep reminding myself that I'm a warrior and stronger than this disease. And that's what gets me through, at least until I can go back to sleep. Some days are better than others but lupus has become a part of me now, and I don't even remember what life was like without it. Someday I hope that I can help people in any way that I can while dealing with lupus, because no one should have to fight alone.