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We Live with Lupus Support Group: Pearls of Wisdom
Support Groups are a perfect place to learn from other lupus patients. During our meetings, we often share “pearls of wisdom” with one another. Pearls of wisdom are wise sayings or pieces of advice. The We Live with Lupus Support Group has offered some pearls of wisdom to help other lupus patients.
Sometimes, as lupus patients, we may feel guilty if we intentionally rest and practice self-care when we feel we could be doing something else (working, cleaning, etc.). When I have those moments, a quote by Winnie the Pooh comes to mind: "Sometimes, doing nothing is the very best something you can do." From: Natalie Lindsay-Smith “Learn to become your own advocate. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or question your doctors. Hold them accountable. You’re a person not a number. Increase your knowledge by doing the research and staying ahead. Having support is great, but being able To advocate for yourself is the power to make real changes in your healthcare.” From: Natalie
“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.” — Helen Keller Pearls of Wisdom...
Stress is the worst possible thing for lupus. The thing that has helped me tremendously would be starting a relationship with God. Being able to give my problems, worries, and fears to God is a great stress reliever on this wild lupus journey. Laughter would be the second - being able to laugh when you want to cry. Find the joy in everything and spread it to others. You're not alone! From: Cat
Know that you are not alone. Don’t reinvent the wheel. Join a support group. Talk to others that may have had the same or similar challenges. Always be honest with yourself and most of all your doctor. Use the available resources. Things are really good for newly diagnosed patients. From: Dorothy
I think I’d tell a person who was newly diagnosed that it’s not a death sentence. When I was diagnosed in 1996, my first thought was “I’m going to die.” But you can live well with lupus. It’s possible. Also, rest when your body tells you to. From: Bridgette Wilson, MS, CHES
Healthy habits are key to managing my lupus. I exercise, I’m a vegan, and I don’t smoke or drink alcohol. These healthy habits help keep my lupus in-check. When I start pushing myself too much or start eating junk or skipping workouts, I suffer. So, I aim to keep things balanced and my body healthy at all times. From: Adrienne
Pearls of Wisdom...
From: Mike
Don't let lupus stop you from living. Make "living with lupus" look good!!! Education and hope will help you get to a rewarding life. Never give up!!! From: Renee
Don't be afraid of getting a second opinion when it comes to your health. From: Tisa
Show yourself grace. You WILL get overwhelmed, so take one tiny step at a time and give yourself time to learn, to heal, to process. You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Celebrate all the victories, and use everything else as a step towards the next goal. From: Allison
