Diana Saraceno

Meet Diana Saraceno from Michigan and now living in Venice, FL. Diana has been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus since 1996.

Diana’s Story:

In 1996, I had excessive weakness after the birth of my first daughter and then my symptoms went dormant until 2012. I was formally diagnosed again in January 2020. My current symptoms are severe fatigue, sore limbs, muscle weakness and aches, joint pain, hair loss, severe memory issues, balance problems, bone spurs, nausea, weight gain, IBS, ischemic colitis, two blood clots, etc. My challenges are staying awake, I can’t drive at night due to photosensitivity, can’t run and play with my son like I use to, I take 16+ pills a day, need to lose weight, I use a cane now (since 47!) and I can’t clean like I use to or feel safe alone sometimes. I had a panic attack in March 2018. My overlapping conditions are IBS, reflux, ischemic colitis, HBP, anxiety, depression, rashes, allergies, etc.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone who is newly diagnosed?: Don’t feel alone, we are all here to support one another and share our time and stories.

What is one misconception you wish you could change about lupus?: That if you do more, you will forget about the pain and feel better.

Thank you to the Michigan Lupus Foundation for helping us and supporting us through this difficult time!