Typical "butterfly"-like rash over the cheeks in lupus.
Artistic rendition of a butterfly rash.
The website of the Phila. Front Page News, a nonprofit established in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has begun providing support for lupus patients and their families, together with educational awareness of the disease and its treatment. Many victims of the disease end up in a situation where they are prevented from working a regular 9 to 5 job. Donations of $1 or more will be asked as a means to go toward benefitting lupus victims who need more awareness and understanding about the disease.
The Phila. Front Page News (FPN) will provide information from the Boardmembers; Manager's reports; News snippets; Fundraising Activities. This FPN activity raises support for lupus victims and an interest base, and increases awareness. FPN's Van Stone, Editor and Publisher will be increasing awareness and raising incalculable funds for worthy causes. Stone will be joined by James Sullivan, FPN associate and boardmember, for the increase of public awareness and media interest in Lupus funding, research and support for individuals struggling with the disease.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus), is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disease that can affect any part of the body. As occurs in other autoimmune diseases, the immune system attacks the body’s cells and tissue, resulting in inflammation and tissue damage.
SLE most often harms the heart, joints, skin, lungs, blood vessels, liver, kidneys and nervous system. The course of the disease is unpredictable, with periods of illness (called flares) alternating with remissions. The disease occurs nine times more often in women than in men, especially between the ages of 15 and 50, and is more common in those of non-European descent.
SLE is treatable through addressing its symptoms though, mainly with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants; there is currently no cure.
SLE can be fatal, although with recent medical advances, fatalities are becoming increasingly rare. Survival for people with SLE in the United States, Canada, and Europe is approximately 95% at five years, 90% at 10 years, and 78% at 20 years.
Anyone interested in supporting the FPN lupus awareness charity can visit FPN at www.frontpagenew.us and locate the donate button above the main story column. FPN will also accept checks mailed to VSP Foundation P.O. Box 395, E. Lansdowne, PA 19050 payable to VSP Foundation Lupus Charity to support lupus awareness.
