Support Dani’s Fight for Lupus Diagnosis

Hello everyone! My name is Dani, I’m starting this page in hopes that I may continue advocating for an official Lupus diagnosis, and treatment. Almost 5 years ago, I started to develop my first symptoms. It started with swollen and inflamed hands and joints. Soon after I started experiencing fevers and flu like symptoms that would come on suddenly, and be met with inflammation in all my joints but especially my hands. These flares are sporadic and I never really know how long they will last. Some days I’m thankful because I feel normal again. While others are so dibilitating I can’t meet basic needs for myself. I am 38 single woman, I work multiple jobs to support myself. While also struggling with this chronic condition. Unfortunately I am one of the many in the US without health insurance. I was able to afford a visit with my primary care physician back in late 2023. After speaking with him about the many symptoms I was experiencing and the duration of these symptoms, he suspected Lupus might be the culprit. Although, I did not have the finances to pay for the blood planels and ANA testing he referred for me. He knew that I was a cash pay patient, so he started treating me with daily steroids until I am able to afford the testing he recommends. My pride has stopped me from making this page for several years, I’ve never been great at asking for a need to be met. Eldest daughter syndrome I suppose, lol. I also know that year after year I continue to struggle in silence and that is doing a diservice to myself and health. So if you have the ability to help in any way I would humbly grateful. Thank you for taking the time to hear about my story, and thank you for your service to others like me.