National Lupus Day

Young woman with a lupus awareness ribbon, wearing a flowy dress, sunny garden setting, with a hint of purple.. — National lupus day illustration

Hey there lupus warriors! Welcome to the fascinating world of National Lupus Day! Get ready for a journey into the intriguing history, heartwarming stories, and unexpected surprises behind this special day.

When is Lupus Day?

It's national lupus day on the 10th May.

The Internet History of National Lupus Day

Did you know that National Lupus Day was first celebrated online? Yes, it's true! Back in the early days of the internet, lupus advocates and supporters joined forces in virtual communities to raise awareness and advocate for research.

As lupus awareness grew and online activism gained momentum, the Lupus Foundation of America officially designated May 10th as National Lupus Day in 2001. Since then, it has served as a powerful platform to educate, empower, and unite those affected by this complex autoimmune disease.

On this day, social media platforms explode with lupus-related content, creating a vibrant online tapestry of hope, resilience, and shared experiences. People from all walks of life gather under the digital banner of lupus awareness, championing the cause and supporting their fellow warriors.

Lupus Awareness in the Real World

While National Lupus Day is primarily an internet-driven celebration, it has also made its presence felt in the real world. Local communities organize events, fundraisers, and educational campaigns to spread awareness and support. Walks, runs, and other creative activities bring people together, allowing them to showcase their strength and solidarity.

Imagine a sea of purple shirts flooding the streets, with people wearing butterfly-themed accessories to symbolize the transformative journey of lupus warriors. There are inspirational speeches, touching stories, and the feeling of unity that can only be found in a gathering of individuals bonded by shared experiences.

Remember, it's not just about the purple attire and awareness ribbons; it's about creating a world where lupus patients receive the care, support, and understanding they deserve.

History behind the term 'Lupus'

1231

Ancient Origins

The term 'lupus' finds its roots in ancient Rome, where it was used to describe the utilization of wolf's fur for various purposes. The Latin word 'lupus' translates to 'wolf' in English. Wolves were highly regarded by the Romans due to their strength and cunning nature, and their fur was used to create warm clothing and luxurious accessories.

1566

First Medical Usage

In the 16th century, the term 'lupus' began to be used in the medical field to refer to a particular skin condition characterized by the formation of red, butterfly-shaped rashes on the face. The term was chosen due to the similarity between the pattern of the rash and the appearance of a wolf's head, with the rash covering the cheeks and the bridge of the nose, resembling a lupine profile.

1828

Scientific Classification

In 1828, the French dermatologist Laurentius Heister coined the term 'lupus erythematosus' to describe the skin condition. Heister used 'lupus' to refer to its characteristic rash, and 'erythematosus' to describe the redness of the skin. This classification marked an important milestone in understanding and categorizing the various types of lupus.

1948

Differentiating Types

The year 1948 marked a significant breakthrough in the field of rheumatology. A team of scientists, led by two physicians, Malcolm Hargraves and Robert Levin, discovered a distinct characteristic of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. They identified a serum factor, now known as the 'Hargraves' or 'LE' cell, which could be used to diagnose SLE. This discovery led to the differentiation between SLE and other forms of lupus.

1971

Lupus Awareness

The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) was established in 1971, marking a turning point in lupus awareness and support. The foundation aimed to educate the public, provide support to individuals living with lupus, and fund research to improve diagnosis and treatment options. Since its establishment, the LFA has made significant contributions to increasing awareness about lupus and advocating for better healthcare and support resources.

Did you know?

Did you know that butterflies serve as a powerful symbol in the lupus community? They represent the constant metamorphosis experienced by lupus warriors, as they strive to adapt to the ever-changing challenges of their condition.