Rachel Simpkins

Meet Rachel Simpkins from Warren, MI. She’s been living with lupus for 16 years.

Rachel’s Story:

I went thru several rheumatologist at age 39, I’m now 56 years old. When I was 39, they kept telling me I’m too young to be sick. Finally, I went to the M.I.N.D. Clinic. It was there they drew my blood, I had a positive ANA, and they told me I had Lupus. My symptoms for 16 years has been chronic pain and fatigue. I also get face rashes in fluorescent lights. The biggest challenge I face is when my pain and fatigue goes way up, I have to rest. I've even had a sister who said, “I wish I could stay in bed all day!” Well, it's not all day, but on my very bad flares it was more than one day. I've been doing online church because I'm not physically able to attend with pain, nausea and they have fluorescent lights I cannot do. The other day I planted my garden on raised flower beds and I told my husband to keep me positive because I wanted to plant but ended up crying I was in pain. It did get done.

Stay strong, stay positive, find people who support you.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who is newly diagnosed?: You’re not lazy, you’re sick.

What is one misconception you wish you could change about lupus?: It's not about looks, it's about pain and fatigue.

What brings you joy?: My service dog Annie, my garden, I paint and I’m working on my Lupus book.