Precious Hackett

Meet Precious Hackett from Southfield, MI. She has been battling lupus for over 35 years.

Precious’ Story:

I was diagnosed with lupus in 1991 when I returned home to Michigan after living in California for 6 years. I would complain to my doctor but like everyone else, I was told I was exaggerating. My mom's doctor looked at me when I was at my first appointment and knew right away, but had his colleagues examine me to confirm the diagnosis. I always felt fatigued, which was chalked up to the fact that I was too active because I played a lot of sports in high school. I would fall while running because my legs became weak. My fingers were cracking all the time. I was losing my hair and had the butterfly rash on my face. I just felt sick all of the time. I've struggled with TIA's, diabetes and arthritis for the past 18 years, which caused me to have to retire from a job after working 19 years. I've developed brain fog which is so irritating. I've also developed Avascular Necrosis from being on prednisone for so many years. I would advise a person to not take them for as many years as I have. One of my main challenges is not knowing how I'm going to feel when I wake in the morning.

I have Lupus, but Lupus does not have me!!!!

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who is newly diagnosed?: No two people are the same. Learn your body's limitations and listen to it. Be your own advocate. The doctors are doctors, they do not know what you are experiencing!

What is one misconception you wish you could change about lupus?: Just because a person living with this invisible disease looks good. It doesn't mean that we feel good.

What brings you joy?: First and formost, waking up every morning brings me joy! Seeing my husband and son happy also brings me joy. Volunteering at the Michigan Lupus Foundation brings me great joy.