State Representative Tony Hwang is noting that May is Lupus Awareness Month with the aim of increasing public understanding of this unpredictable and potentially life-threatening disease that affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans.
Rep Hwang addressed a gathering of Lupus patients and advocates at the CT State Capitol Monday to reinforce his commitment and support to raising awareness and hopefully the eradication of this insidious disease. Hwang was particularly proud in helping to establish the first-in-the-nation Interagency and Partnership Advisory Panel on Lupus through the CT Department of Public Health.
“I am motivated by the brave and courageous actions of Lupus patients and respect that the disease also has a dramatic impact on their family members,” said Rep. Hwang. “To hear Lupus patient advocates tell their compelling stories of struggle and perseverance inspire me to continue the fight against Lupus.”
Hwang also added that he has will communicate with RI and NY state legislators and volunteer to travel and participate in informational forums to help toward the successful implementation of Lupus Awareness and Education legislation in those states.
Lupus is a difficult and complicated illness that affects each patient differently. It is an autoimmune disease, which means your immune system can't tell the difference between your body's healthy tissue and dangerous invaders like bacteria and viruses. As a result, the immune system attacks and destroys the healthy tissue, causing inflammation, pain and damage.
Lupus can affect nearly any part of the body, including skin, joints and internal organs. About 90 percent of those who suffer from lupus are women, most between the ages of 15 and 44.
