iFightLupus

WHY I FIGHT

At the age of 7, I lost my mother to Lupus and watched firsthand the effects that this disease can have on a family. I spent years scared to even say the word "Lupus" but later began to research the symptoms and treatments. I found out that there is no known cure and I could possibly have the traits as well as pass them along to my children.

I slowly turned this fear of the unknown into a crusade to raise awareness about Lupus. Thru many programs, events, walks & various fundraisers, I have met countless individuals of many different backgrounds that suffer from Lupus but have not allowed it to destroy their lives. Through their strength, I am motivated to keep the fight alive in hopes of one day finding a cure!

FIGHTERS UNITED

This site is dedicated to all of those who wake up each and everyday to fight Lupus. Just know that I join you in your battle and refuse to stop until we win!

-Jermaine “FunnyMaine” Johnson

JOIN THE FIGHT

“Giving” is at the heart of the fight! Through your generous contribution, we’re able to host comedy shows, fundraisers, walks and many other events to raise funds for Lupus research through our partnership with the Lupus Foundation of America (MidSouth)

GIVE DIRECTLY

WHAT IS LUPUS?

Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/or organs inside the body). Chronic means that the signs and symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks and often for many years.

In lupus, something goes wrong with your immune system, which is the part of the body that fights off viruses, bacteria, and germs (“foreign invaders,” like the flu). Normally our immune system produces proteins called antibodies that protect the body from these invaders. Autoimmune means your immune system cannot tell the difference between these foreign invaders and your body’s healthy tissues (“auto” means “self”) and creates autoantibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue. These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body.

Lupus is also a disease of flares (the symptoms worsen and you feel ill) and remissions (the symptoms improve and you feel better).

MORE INFO