The Tribune

A NEW support group for those suffering with lupus has officially been launched in New Providence.

The goals of the Lupus Bahamas 242 Information and Support Group are to raise awareness and provide support for Bahamians living with the chronic autoimmune disease.

The group's motto is "Breaking the Silence... Supporting the Cure".

Although there is no known cause, doctors believe genetics, environment and hormones all play a part in whether a person develops the disease.

Common symptoms include debilitating pain, fatigue and unexplained flare-ups impacting random parts of the body, especially internal organs. But it was the fear, uncertainty and feelings of isolation that prompted Lupus Bahamas 242 president Shanelle Brennen to launch the group.

"Dealing with the physical issues associated with an illness like lupus is challenging enough," said Ms Brennen, who has been fighting Lupus for more than 20 years.

"Almost every day, I hear stories of persons with lupus and our goal is to provide that support and to create a level of awareness in this country. It's important for newly diagnosed persons to hear the success stories, to see the fighters and to know that the journey can continue."

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, more than 1.5 million Americans live with the illness.

There are no real statistics on the number of persons in the Bahamas with lupus.

In addition to raising awareness, Lupus Bahamas 242 is working to establish a local database of lupus patients. The group is also pushing for their medications to be included in the National Prescription Drug Plan.

Since the group's Facebook page was launched, persons from throughout the Bahamas have reached out to connect with family, friends and fighters to learn more about lupus.

"May is Lupus Awareness Month and we will be appealing to the general public and to corporate Bahamas to support our events and activities," Ms Brennen said.