Michele Pickett

Meet Michele Pickett from St. Clair Shores, MI. Michele has been battling lupus for 7 years and is committed to being a fighter.

Michele’s Story:

I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus by my primary care physician in 2016 after experiencing pain, swelling and sores on my hands. Today I experience not having a lot of strength, pain in the muscles and joints in my hands, and having fibromyalgia as well, not to mention horrible back pain and weakness in my legs. These two conditions together are horrible for me. The last 3 years have been very challenging. I had to stop working in 2020 at a job I worked for a little over 25 years. I started having a lot of issues. I take several different medications along with doing my Benlysta infusions once a month, but I thank God for the people in my life cause this illness is not for the weak. I am a fighter and by God's grace, I will continue to beat SLE every time 💜

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who is newly diagnosed?: Continue to ask questions, never let your physician tell you what you are or are not feeling.

What brings you joy?: Spending time with my husband, kids, grandkids, my sister and nieces and nephews.