Let’s talk about something real for a minute.
Some people who know me personally know this, but not many do. Back in May 2013, after having my oldest son Elijah (stillborn), along with multiple miscarriages and an ectopic pregnancy, I was diagnosed with APS (Antiphospholipid Syndrome).
Almost 10 years later, I was also diagnosed with Lupus.
A lot of people don’t know the difference between the two, or why doctors often call them “cousins.”
APS is an autoimmune disorder where the body creates antibodies that mistakenly attack normal proteins in the blood. This can cause blood clots, pregnancy complications, miscarriages, strokes, and circulation issues.
Lupus (SLE) is another autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues throughout the body. It can affect joints, skin, kidneys, blood, heart, lungs, and cause chronic inflammation and fatigue.
They’re considered “cousins” because both happen when the immune system turns against the body, and they often overlap. Many people with lupus can also have APS antibodies, and some people with APS later develop lupus. They share symptoms, flare patterns, and often require similar monitoring and treatment.
So when you see someone smiling, showing up, parenting, working, or pushing through life… just know sometimes there’s a silent battle behind that strength.
I’ve been through loss. I’ve been through pain. I’ve been through diagnoses I never asked for. But I’m still here. Still standing. Still fighting. 💜
#LupusAwareness #APSAwareness #AutoimmuneWarrior #ChronicIllnessWarrior #InvisibleIllness #StillStanding #WomenStrength #HealingJourney #UniquelyAusomee
Living with autoimmune diseases like APS and Lupus is often a hidden struggle that many people don’t fully understand. From my own experience and sharing stories with others in the autoimmune community, I’ve learned that coping with these conditions is about more than managing physical symptoms — it’s also a mental and emotional battle. APS causes your immune system to attack proteins in your blood, which can lead to serious complications like blood clots and miscarriages. For many women, these pregnancy complications are heartbreaking and difficult to cope with emotionally. Lupus, on the other hand, attacks tissues all over your body, causing chronic pain and severe fatigue that can disrupt daily life. One thing I continuously remind myself and others is that these illnesses don’t define us. Despite the losses and flare-ups, people with APS and Lupus find ways to keep pushing forward. This might mean adjusting work schedules, leaning on support networks, or simply taking each day a little slower. The silent battles we fight often go unnoticed by friends and family, which can feel isolating. But connecting with others who understand makes a huge difference. Medical advancements now offer better monitoring and treatments that help many manage symptoms more effectively. Regular check-ups, blood tests, and a tailored treatment plan are vital to catching flare-ups early and preventing complications. Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, gentle exercise, and stress management can also play a significant role in supporting overall health. Above all, sharing our stories, like this one, helps to raise awareness about APS and Lupus as more than just medical terms — they’re lived experiences filled with resilience and hope. If you’re new to these diagnoses or supporting a loved one, remember you’re not alone. There’s a growing community of autoimmune warriors standing strong together, advocating for better understanding and care.