I am a Lupus warrior. Each day, I battle with it. It's an ongoing war, one that without medication, seems impossible to fight. It's the brightness in the gloominess of a tough day. Lupus, an autoimmune disease, is not just my fight; it's the fight of millions around the globe. Each one of us hoping to see another day, knowing our lives could be cut short.

Lupus impacts nearly 1.5 million Americans, and at least 5 million people worldwide. More than 16,000 new cases of Lupus are reported in the United States each year (Lupus Foundation of America). This is not a rare condition; it is a widespread, relentless disease that deserves substantial awareness and funding to help those of us affected to live healthier, longer lives.

But we often live hidden lives, our struggles unseen. Lupus is painfully isolating, but with increased public understanding and funding for research, we can reduce this isolation, improve access to treatments, and support research for a cure.

Please, stand with me and other Lupus warriors. Recognize the gravity of our daily struggles, amplify our voices, and contribute to the fight for a healthier future for us all. Supporting this petition means supporting measures to increase funding and awareness for Lupus research and treatment. Please, sign this petition and transform millions of lives, including mine.