Virginia Guindon

Meet Virginia Guindon from Oxford, MI. Virginia has been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus since 1987.

Virginia’s Story:

I was diagnosed in 1987. Lupus has never skipped a generation on my mother's side of the family. We have lost many butterflies. I faced many challenges for too many years, although I have wonderful doctors, I was still very sick for many years. I used to be on the couch, down and out most of the time. When I was first diagnosed, I was given 10-15 years. I was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Myopathy in 2009. 

In 2020, I decided to learn about becoming an herbalist. I make tinctures and take many supplements. My doctors were on board with my decision to integrate this into my medicine regime. What happened next was amazing to the doctors. My morning smoothie consisted of several mushroom powders and supplements. I have never skipped a day. My blood work began to change and my medication decreased. The doctors said just keep doing what you're doing!

Today at age 58 I am taking karate 4 days a week, I am active and enjoying life. I currently am showing no markers on my blood work. You never know what can help you be you if you don't learn about and try the unconventional. I believe I will be the first to truly be a lupus survivor in my family’s history.

What's one piece of advice you would give to someone who is newly diagnosed?: One piece of advice I would give to someone is to find a functional medicine doctor.

What is one misconception you wish you could change about lupus?: One misconception I wish I could change about lupus is that medication is your only alternative.

What brings you joy?: What brings me joy is spending time with my family, Karate, and sitting by the bonfire with my husband.