Real Lupus Stories

The Chapter I Didn’t Write: On Lupus, Gaslighting and Finding My Voice

By on December 2, 2025

The Chapter I Didn’t Write: On Lupus, Gaslighting and Finding My Voice If my life were a novel, Lupus would be the antagonist that showed up uninvited in the early chapters. But here’s the twist the reader wouldn’t see coming: it wasn’t the villain that defined the story; it was the protagonist’s fight to reclaim […]

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From Lectures to Lupus Flares: A Guide to Balancing University Life

By on November 3, 2025

From Lectures to Lupus Flares: A Guide to Balancing University Life By Abigail Mostert Being a university student has its challenges. Throw a lupus diagnosis into the equation and these challenges can suddenly feel insurmountable. Living with lupus, a chronic autoimmune condition, can create an element of unpredictability in your life. Whether it comes in […]

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Powerful Reflection from Keshni

By on October 8, 2025

Her story is a poignant reminder of the complexities of living with lupus. Her raw emotions and vulnerability resonate deeply. It’s a journey of grief, self-discovery, and resilience. Finding hope and gratitude in the midst of challenges is a testament to the human spirit. Thank you, Keshni, for sharing your story and inspiring the lupus […]

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Woman packing medication for the week.

Living with Lupus in South Africa: Challenging the Mystery This May Awareness Month

By on May 3, 2025

This May, Andrea’s Gift Foundation (AGF), a lupus-focused NPO, is facing lupus head-on. Encompassing their values, awareness, education and support, facing lupus head-on seeks to address the realities of living with lupus. Although healthcare professionals equip patients with ways to manage their lupus symptoms, living with lupus also means learning to navigate medical aids, make […]

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Meet Chelsea Calder | Real Lupus Stories

By on April 2, 2025

Dating with lupus can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with symptoms that impact self-confidence and social interactions. In this Real Lupus Story, one of our community members shares her journey of finding love after a difficult breakup and a lupus diagnosis. Her story is a reminder that love, support, and understanding can flourish, even when […]

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Meet Angela Knight | Real Lupus Stories

By on February 2, 2025

Trigger Warning: This post contains a graphic image of a lupus rash. While it is included to raise awareness and provide an honest look at the realities of living with lupus, we understand that some readers may find it distressing. Viewer discretion is advised. Living with lupus is a relentless battle—one that Angela Knight knows […]

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Meet Belinda Carstens | Real Lupus Stories

By on January 6, 2025

Belinda Carstens’ story is one of courage, faith, and finding joy even in the hardest of times. Since her lupus diagnosis turned her life upside down, she has faced every challenge with remarkable determination. Through the ups and downs, Belinda has rediscovered herself—whether it’s reigniting her love for music, embracing new physical goals, or inspiring […]

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Too Weak to Wipe Your Bum by Daniella Djan

By on March 2, 2024

The nurse pierced me with her tired eyes. “Sit,” she whispered with such intensity that her veins popped on her forehead and her lips quivered. I sat on the toilet seat as she watched me closely. It must have been two o’clock in the morning and she was exhausted. Emotionally drained by my constant need […]

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Visiting Dracula by Daniella Djan

By on February 2, 2024

Taking blood for a lupie is a nightmare. You’ve got the elastic around your arm and the nurse slapping your wrist as she says “No veins!” or “Wake up!”, or in my case “She’s so dark you can’t see anything!” Taking blood for a lupie is about playing the poking game. We are human pincushions. […]

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