I want to thank everyone who supported me financially and encouraged me emotionally for the lupus walk which took place this past Saturday, Sep. 27 at Metro Park Beach in Harrison Township. It was a perfect day for those of us with lupus — overcast and cool; we were right on Lake St. Clair the whole time — we being me, Bill and Tim (Bill’s business partner). The three of us had a good time (Tim mainly because the food was free). Unfortunately, I had to be in my wheelchair the whole time, so the guys took turns pushing me, but I had a great view the whole time. And even though I was sitting down for the 3 mile walk, I was exhausted afterward. But I’m so glad I went… there’s nothing like being with people who completely understand what you’re going through without having to say a word.

Anyway, we were very successful financially, exceeding our $2000 goal! I’m hoping to work towards $5000 next year, as research for lupus is slow even though it is the most common autoimmune disease, impacting over 2 million Americans every year. It’s been 40 years since a new lupus medication was FDA approved and that needs to change. Luckily, things are changing: as recently as 20 years ago, a diagnosis of lupus meant a death sentence within 5 years for over 50%. Now, doctors are a bit more aware of the prevalence of the disease, blood tests are more sophisticated, and we have better medications to treat individual symptoms that help extend the life expectancy and make us “lupies” more comfortable in the meantime.

Anyway, take a look at how we did, learn a little about lupus, and read my story for this year (yes, I believe you can still contribute for a few more days if you’re so inclined)

Again, everyone, thank you so much for your support!

– Gretchen Schafer

Posted on Tuesday, September 30th, 2008 at 10:39 am.