I was diagnosed 5 years ago after several years of confusing symptoms. I remember the relief of finally knowing what was wrong with me and realizing I was not imagining all of it. However, with that diagnosis comes questions, concerns, and a range of emotions. One of the most helpful things for me was to educate myself and find support from others. I was blessed to find a local lupus support group in my community. The first time I went to a meeting, I sat in the parking lot in awe looking at the cars and realizing there were other people just like me. It took courage for me to walk into that meeting not knowing what I would find, but I have been so blessed to find supportive, educated, helpful people who have walked alongside me on this journey. Everyone's experience is different, but it can be so very helpful to have others who understand and will share their experiences and knowledge.
I also began reading educational materials from reputable sources. I think it's very important for me to have an understanding of the disease. I cannot control whether or not I have the disease, but I can control how I choose to live with it. For me, being knowledgeable helps me make informed decisions with my doctors.
I recently found this site and I'm so glad I did. This is a great site with helpful information and is a great resource. Websites like this can be such a useful tool to help us connect and support each other.View Thread