May is Lupus Awareness Month, and this incurable autoimmune disease affects approximately 1.5 million Americans, 90 percent of which are women.

It’s when your immune system becomes hyperactive and starts attacking normal, healthy tissues, your life changes drastically.

With symptoms of chest pain when breathing, mouth sores, hair loss, sensitivity to light, fatigue joint pain swollen lymph nodes, and skin rashes. all daily tasks can seem insurmountable. Add taking care of 2 children, getting housework done, grocery shopping, gymnastics, and soccer along with all other things that come with being a mom, and you’ve got a recipe for one overwhelmed parent.

Some of my personal daily struggles are fatigue and joint pain on a daily basis — two symptoms I’m constantly fighting to overcome and work through. When I’m having a flare-up, I get bad skin rashes and my pain goes from difficult to debilitating.

How do I combat these symptoms:

I take Plaquenil daily to keep the flare-ups at bay, but it doesn’t get rid of everything. And I have just started Actar to try to reduce my symptoms also Having a supportive partner is also key. Having someone there to listen to you when you need a moment.

Living with daily discomfort and fatigue can take a toll not only physically, but emotionally and mentally. My children are my driving force that keeps me pushing through the pain and exhaustion. Having that goal and focus can truly give you strength when you need it most.

 Don’t be afraid to ask for help or take it when offered.

Remember to take it one day at a time. If you or someone you know is struggling with lupus or another chronic disease, it’s always important to make room for grace.

There will be good days and bad — don’t define yourself by the bad ones. Just make the most of the good ones!!