According to the Lupus Foundation of America, lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body. The symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks and often last for many years. Lupus causes the immune system to function poorly and it cannot tell the difference between bacteria, germs or viruses and the body's tissues, creating autoantibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue. These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain and damage in various parts of the body.
On Friday, May 20, in order to raise awareness for lupus, members of the community are asked to join the growing number of individuals who “Put on Purple” in order to help the Lupus Foundation of America raise awareness and show support for those who are living with lupus.
Those who would like to participate are asked to go to the gazebo at Four Freedoms Park on Friday, May 20 at 11:45 a.m. for a community-wide photo as National Lupus Awareness Month is observed.
For more information, contact Lisa Leary, PR Coordinator for the Madison Lupus Advisory Committee at noitalltoo@foxtrace-.net.