In 2014, my life underwent a profound transformation. A stranger sat across from me, uttering unfamiliar words with an urgency and concern that seeped into the depths of my being. At just 15 years old, I struggled to comprehend the gravity of the information I was receiving, yet instinctively knew it wasn’t promising. Enduring the physical pain, hospital visits, and daily medications became manageable, but accepting the permanence of this disease proved insurmountable. The true anguish resided in the mental toll it exacted. Feeling isolated, I embarked on a search for support groups tailored to teens grappling with chronic illnesses, only to discover a glaring absence of such resources. This realization weighed not only on me but also on my parents, highlighting the glaring gap in our understanding of Lupus until it directly impacted our lives.

Thus, our mission unfolds: to raise Lupus awareness and extend educational resources to underserved communities, offering support to individuals navigating life with this condition. Our spectrum of assistance encompasses Lupus education, nutritional guidance, beauty and fitness insights, and specialized support groups for teens. Through these avenues, our organization endeavors to empower each individual to cultivate a lifestyle conducive to their well-being.

At 22 years old, I have borne witness to the unwavering solidarity of our community and family, their support and eagerness to learn serving as pillars of strength. Yet, our aspirations extend beyond personal circles.

Our journey has been graced by an invaluable network of supporters and advocates. Leveraging the resources within our “village,” including doctors, nurses, educators, friends, family, political figures, and spiritual allies, we navigated the tumultuous years with resilience and hope. Recognizing the privilege of our support system, we acknowledged the absence of such blessings in many lives. Thus, Applecake’s Lupus Organization was conceived.

On Sunday, May 27, 2018, at Branch Brook Park, Newark, NJ bore witness to its inaugural Lupus walk, drawing 250 individuals united in a shared cause. The subsequent year saw a doubling of participation, emblematic of the growing momentum. In 2019, we celebrated another milestone with Apple Cakes Lupus Organization’s inaugural “party with a purpose,” raising $1,000 in support of The Lupus Organization of America.

Our journey is one of resilience, advocacy, and unwavering determination. As we press forward, we invite all who share our vision to stand with us, for the battle against Lupus is one that demands our collective resolve and solidarity.