Lupus 242 Holds Virtual Events for Awareness Month

Tue, May 5th 2020, 02:04 PM

May is recognized as Lupus Awareness Month around the world. With social distancing measures in place as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, local support group Lupus 242 will host a series of virtual events to stay connected to its members and the general public.

Every Friday in May, the group is encouraging persons in The Bahamas to #POPAtHome—Put On Purple and post photos to raise awareness.

On the first Friday of the month, photos started popping up on social media with runners sporting purple facemasks, make-up artists posting creative face art and others wearing the color at home to show support. 

“While we are adhering to the advice of medical professionals as it relates to social distancing, our goal is to remain connected to our members and to continue the mission of breaking the silence surrounding lupus,” said Shonalee Johnson, Vice President and Public Relations Officer of Lupus 242.

“Lupus fighters are among the high-risk persons living through this pandemic. This is a scary and uncertain time for many. We want to provide opportunities for members and the wider public to have the right information about lupus as well as tips for managing the illness during the Covid-19 period.”

Starting this Saturday May 9th, Lupus 242 will host the first in a series of virtual health talks running live on the group’s social media platforms. Presenters include rheumatologists Dr. K. Neil Parker, Dr. Aniska Rolle, Dr. Noelle Rolle and pharmacist Ms. Chargrega McPhee. 

Group members are also releasing daily video facts on lupus and local dentist Dr. Shamika Strachan will share tips on oral health and lupus.

Eight years ago, Lupus242 officially launched as an avenue for information and support. The group hosts monthly meetings, awareness events and is a resource for patients and supports dealing with the illness.

The chronic, autoimmune disease affects an estimated 5.5 million persons worldwide. Studies show that lupus is caused by several factors including genetics, environment and hormonal imbalances in the body. 

Lupus is often hard to diagnose with symptoms ranging from severe pain, fatigue and unexplained flare-ups impacting random parts of the body especially internal organs. There is no known cause for the disease and presently, statistics on the number of persons in The Bahamas living with lupus are limited.

To participate in Lupus242 virtual awareness events, follow them at Facebook.com/Lupus242 or Instagram @lupus242, visit www.lupus242.org or call 242-525 9967.

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