A guest commentary posted by Huffingtonpost.com tells the story of Dawn Baker-Williams and her decades-long journey to obtain a correct diagnosis of lupus. In a survey conducted by the Lupus Foundation of America, it was revealed that, on average, people with lupus live with symptoms six years before they are about to obtain a lupus diagnosis. During this time period, they often go untreated or treated for the wrong condition, contributing to an accumulation of organ damage that can put the individual in a life-threatening situation.
In this compelling story, Dawn shares her concerns about the impact that lupus can have on her family. Many people with lupus, moms, dads, aunts, uncles, grandparents and siblings, understand that having a chronic illness like lupus can put a strain on family, work, and social life. But thanks to all of those supportive and understanding family members, people with lupus can get the help they need to live the best life possible.
