Members of Lupus 242 officially launched Lupus Awareness Month by paying a courtesy call on Minister of Health, the Hon. Dr. Perry Gomez.

During the visit, the local support group presented Minister Gomez with Lupus 242 paraphernalia and discussed issues related to persons living with lupus in The Bahamas.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease. Although there is no known cause for the disease, genetics, environment and hormones all play a part in whether a person develops lupus.

Common symptoms include debilitating pain, fatigue and unexplained flare-ups impacting random parts of the body especially internal organs.

More than 5 million people live with the illness worldwide. There are no real statistics on the number of persons in The Bahamas with the illness but the group is working to develop a comprehensive database.

Lupus 242 was established in March 2012 to raise awareness and provide support via monthly meetings. This month’s events include a church service on May 4 at St. Mary The Virgin Anglican Church, P.O.P (Put On Purple) on Friday May 9 and on Saturday May 10, World Lupus Day and a Purple Hat Tea Party Affair on Sunday May 18 at St. Matthew’s Parish Hall.

For more information on upcoming events call: 5259967, visit: www.facebook.com/Lupus242 or email: lupus-bahamas@hotmail.com.

Pictured l tor: Shandesia McFall, group secretary, Shanelle Brennen, Lupus 242 President, Minister Gomez and Jeane Swann, group member.