Childhood Lupus and Feeling Different

I am Maha, 19 years old. I have been diagnosed with SLE in 2013. I was only 12 years old, I had such a healthy beautiful life, I loved everything and enjoyed every moment. The start was unusual and strange, I had pains in my joints specifically, in my knees, and generally, I was tired not feeling well. It was different. I didn't fall down or have a fight. The pain was unexplained and annoying.

Lupus symptoms increased

Then the symptoms started to increase and become more severe, I started to feel weak and always tired.

After maybe two months, I had a very bad fever. I couldn't move, and with every single breath, I was in pain.

I am not living alone. I was stubborn, I chose what I want to do. And my parents always listened to me. So when I had that fever, they forced me to meet the doctor. I had lots of blood work, and this was new to me.

Then after many tests and procedures, I have been digested with SLE.

What is SLE?

I didn't understand anything, WHAT IS SLE? IS THIS REAL?

They give medications to control my immune system, and I must have these medications for the rest of my life. I didn't know how long they meant, I was only 12.

So I took the medications and my symptoms were controlled. But my whole life has changed. It's like the SLE clear my mind, I was depressed. All these pains, it's really affecting your thoughts. I started to be alone, isolating myself for no reason. I want it to be alone.

Managing my lupus

Now it's almost eight years with SLE. I managed my life, I've faced lots, and I took lots of lessons. Now I'm mentally stronger, I take my medications every single day, and I'm grateful for that.

Maybe Lupus changed my life forever, but that's what made me who I am today.

I am thankful for every single person who supported me during that period, I am very grateful to my parents.

With love,
Maha

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