Hannah's Lupus Story

I started to have eye problems when I was nine years old. My eyes would get red and painful, and my vision would get blurry. Eventually, I was diagnosed with scleritis. We tried everything from medicine to diet in search of something to help my eye problems go away. What we didn't know was that the problem went deeper than the surface; it wasn't just an eye problem.

I started to get a red rash and sores on my face, along with joint and muscle pain. At 11 years old I was officially diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease that can attack anything from your skin to your organs.

I am now 18 years old, and let me tell you, it has not been easy. The combination of pain, medication, doctors appointments, ER visits, and new symptoms can make you feel like you're going crazy!

For anyone struggling with Lupus or any other condition, I want to say that I am so proud of all of you guys. Make sure you find a community to cheer you on and comfort you when you're feeling down. Remember to advocate for yourself! Use a journal or an app on your phone to keep track of all of your symptoms, and make sure you let the doctor know that you are hurting and need attentive care when necessary. And don’t settle for less! Remember that you are not lesser than because of your diagnosis. You are beautiful and strong! I hope you are all doing well!

Written by: Hannah Sutherland

Follow Hannah’s journey on IG: @livin.withlupus