Even though the television says it’s only 85 degrees outside, inside feels like a swampy 96. Such conditions are perfect, so my mother thinks, for scrubbing down the fridge. Even splitting the task and using a mop (those sponge mops are great for this), within a minute I’m dripping sweat and my chest seizes up, … Continue reading »
Author Archives: Ro
Lupus and Work: What are your options?
From telecommuting to work share options, a traditional 9-to-5 position no longer has to be the only way to support yourself. Every style of employment has its benefits and challenges. Finding (or creating) a career that not only pays the bills, but also fits your lifestyle is as important an element to your health, as taking your medications and eating well. Continue reading »
Lupie Quick Tip: See Your Doctor – Right Now
If you have certain symptoms that stubbornly crop up and you can’t pinpoint a cause, let your doctor help. Instead of “toughing it out” or “giving it a day” until the symptom vanishes, try to arrange for a blood test immediately. Your body is in a state of constant flux and even minute differences in … Continue reading »
Crazy, Sexy Food
I’ll come right out and say it; I love food. I love experimenting with flavors (perhaps a little too enthusiastically for my mother’s taste) and techniques. Eating is fun; every meal can be as familiar and comforting or new and unusual as I choose. And, living in New York City, I have an entire globe’s … Continue reading »
Just Diagnosed? What I Wish I Was Told…
Break out the time machine and post below what you would tell your past self about living with lupus Continue reading »
A quick “Thank You!” to all my subscribers
I just wanted to take a quick minute to give huge “thanks!” to everyone who’s subscribed to Life Despite Lupus. It’s a huge motivation to know that there are people who like my writing and are (hopefully!) finding some support and motivation of their own from my blog. I also want to invite your feedback … Continue reading »
Dealing with Setbacks (hint: punching the walls doesn’t work)
Setbacks can be a sharp wake-up call if you’ve been slacking or a rally to action if you know you can work harder. So while the sting is still felt, use the time to re-evaluate your game plan, check your resources (or look for new ones) and consider new directions. Continue reading »
May is Lupus Awareness Month – How are you spreading the word?
May is the month for warm(er) weather, flowers – and lupus awareness. If you’ve just been diagnosed, then it’s a great time to check out a few events, meet others with lupus and see what resources and information are available to you. Already a pro on the lupus circuit? Stay on the cutting edge … Continue reading »
Toughing it Out with Lupus
I hear this a lot from both other lupus patients and non-lupus people who just want throw advice my way. They frown upon taking a day off, limiting activities, taking medications, or anything else that is less than having a “normal” life, because this implies, in some way, that you’ve surrendered to your illness and are letting it rule you.
In my humble opinion, that’s bullshit. Continue reading »
Free Webinar: Making Sense of Lupus Medications
The SLE Lupus Foundation is hosting a free webinar on the most common lupus medications, what they are used for, why they work and what to expect from them. Don’t miss this if you have any questions about your lupus medications! Read full details and register here. Continue reading »