My lupus story started well before I was officially diagnosed in May of 2013 at 32 years old. I was suffering from joint pain and couldn’t understand why, at such a young age, I was having this pain. One day, I woke up to go to work and couldn’t get out of bed. I thought it was the flu because I was in horrible pain and had severe fatigue. However, after several tests and hospital visits, I was informed by my rheumatologist that I had lupus. I was so misinformed in believing that only women could get lupus. I eventually came to accept that I had the disease. I’ve had depression, blood clots, heart and neurological issues. Flares usually include hair loss, so now I keep my head bald. I continue to work full-time, but there are periods where I am forced to take time off due to a severe flare. I go to support groups to deal with my illness and get educated. I also have tremendous support from my wife and daughter who are extremely understanding. I have made it my personal mission to inform and educate people about lupus because so many people don’t know what it is.
Michael Davis-King, Young Warrior
Whether it’s a stubborn lime tree, taking care of an abandoned kitten during the pandemic, or lupus, remaining hopeful seems to be Michael’s strong suit. While he says...
