The Pandemic has impacted America more than anyone could have predicted! It took a lot of thought--and a deep meditative state--to realize that a thin, silver lining ”could” come from this worldly tragedy. That is, if the disparities in healthcare witnessed because of COVID-19 patients are addressed instead of brushed under the carpet, like previously down. Did America need a Pandemic to make us pause, and think about the many threats that could change the way we go about our daily lives? It is important that we learn a lesson or two and let it drive us forward—make life better for all. To unite Americans, not divide us! We need to allow science drive us to a better place, where we look out for each other. Progress is needed. The medical community can start to gain trust among communities of color, especially black men. A good reason to invest resources to promote awareness for early intervention for medical conditions when symptoms and signs are first noticed by the patient.
African American men are more likely to contract and succumb from COVID-19. Similar disparities are also seen in lupus! Lupus is known as a disease of woman and those of color. However, anyone can develop lupus, including men. Men—especially those of color— tend to present with more severe manifestations of lupus, like kidney diseases or central nervous system (CNS) involvement. The severity of disease once diagnosed correctly has already caused internal damage, which makes treatment challenging (more involved) and sets the stage for a worse prognosis. The poor prognosis seen in men with lupus is similar to what has been witnessed among male COVID-19 patients.
The similarities between the two conditions could be related to a variety of healthcare disparities, like poor access to healthcare, economic and environmental factors, uninsured, less educated, and so on. One should also consider the co-morbidities present, like diabetes, heart disease and/or obesity, and most importantly, people of color have a history of distrust with governmental interference with healthcare delivery, which was seen with the unethical study of black men and syphilis treatment. Although an unethical study that purposely withholds curative antibiotics to study the tertiary affects of syphilis, would not occur today, trust was shattered. Black men were targeted for this experiment, which left many black families without the head of the household for income. An apology was made by President Clinton for this reckless and unethical study, but the devastation experienced left many skeptics of any research that involves African American men.
In lupus, men are more likely to be misdiagnosed or receive a delayed diagnosis. Physicians don’t think of lupus in men because they account for only 10% of all cases. Men are diagnosed late—once they already have severe disease, usually affecting vital organs, like the kidneys. Lupus is the least-known and least-funded major disease to affect Americans. There is no excuse for no knowing about lupus. Lupus is NOT a rare disease, nor is it a new disease. Lupus is a cruel mystery. It is more severe in African Americans too, especially if they are male. This statistic sends chills down my spine. and those of color and men. and over 6,000 die yearly. I pray that COVID-19 does not continue down a slippery slope, like lupus has already. COVID-19 is real, demands attention, and early access to healthcare. We need to unite and overcome this public health crisis.
First, we must recognize that Black Lives Matter, then we can tackle both CoVID-19 and LUPUS! Take a stand! Purchase a $25 raffle ticket to say ”Lupus Matters!”
It is important that a leader, leads by example. My efforts to make a difference have a greater impact when followed up with action.
Therefore, I personally purchased 5 Jim Click raffle tickets! Each one of my tickets radiates the words “LUPUS MATTERS”.
Please join our efforts—help our ability to provide accurate awareness of lupus within all communities—brown, black or white! Color should not determine whether one receives the best care and the best outcome. All Americans have a right to expect good healthcare. Lupus matters to me! Not just because I have suffered greatly from its harsh symptoms, but I have also witnessed first hand the affects lupus has on the whole family. Furthermore, I made a commitment to help those commonly affected by lupus—college students.
I have sacrificed many aspects of my own life to advocate for others in an effort to inspire, encourage, and provide assistance through my non-profit—L.I.F.E.! While providing merit-based L.I.F.E. Scholarships and inspiring others to attend college despite lupus, I never imagined how the students would affect me. Their stories (essays) have inspired me and given L.I.F.E. a wonderful platform to spread awareness of this frequently misunderstood disease.
Then...a high percentage of winners on the front lines with CoVID-19!!! . Our L.I.F.E. Scholarship winners are courageous, determined and demonstrate perseverance, like a true leader. Leaders that choose to study and work in health care fields as a way to give back and pay it forward! They will listen to their patients, and value them. What an inspiring group of winners providing equal and superb delivery of healthcare to all—including YOU!
They also go the extra mile to help their patient’s loved ones during this difficult time that will one day be read about in history books. Hopefully, the end result will be a positive message and reminder to be ready for any attack on American soil, whether another Pandemic, hate crime or military in nature.