Have any of you noticed the increase in lupus talk happening in the media?  Lady Gaga, Snoop Dogg’s daughter, and John Stewart comparing lupus to the FOX News Network?  You don’t only have to search within the entertainment industry, either.  Last year, news about new potential pharmaceutical treatments on the verge of FDA approval were gaining momentum and the social networks like Twitter and Facebook have come alive adding new voices to the campaign in building lupus awareness.

The introduction of the internet’s ability to offer ANYONE the opportunity to make a difference has truly benefited foundations and their causes, while making each individual person a vital part in creating their own future in living with illness.

If you watch The View tomorrow, Snoop Dogg’s family will be sharing their story about lupus and their new commitment towards raising more awareness for lupus research.  Locally here in Oregon, it will be on August 6^th at 10AM KATU Channel 2 (in Portland Metro area).  Outside the Portland area, check here  for your local Oregon station air times. In Washington, check here .

I’ve noticed that Whoopi Goldberg has been sporting a new orange leather wristband to promote lupus awareness, which is a nice change from the rubber bands that started out with Lance Armstrong.  Information about these bands can be found on the link below and it appears that Snoop Dog has had a part in the new look.  I’m pleased to see we (lupus marketing) are coming up with more original ideas, although I would personally prefer to see it move away from leather.

But, I digress… 

For more information, including a link to the latest People magazine’s article with Snoop Dogg and family, visit The S.L.E NY website . 

Hope you are all enjoying mild symptoms, love and laughter, and lots of rest and relaxation this summer!

“Hello,

We received an email from our National office about The Dr. Oz Show featuring men and lupus. It will be airing on Monday, Jan 18, 2010. In Seattle you can watch this show on KOMO4 TV at 3:00pm. In Portland, it is aired on ABC 2 KATU 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM on KATU-DT2 (DTV Channel 2-2) [Dr. Oz link has incorrect time]. 

Please check this link: http://www.doctoroz.com/find-station to watch show timings in your areas.”

After watching the show you have more questions or want to know about resources to learn more about living with lupus, the national LFA website does offer archived transcripts from their webchats on Men and lupus,  Men’s health and lupus and Lupus in men.  They also have community message boards where ongoing discussions and an Ask The Expert link.   Our PNW LFA Chapter will also field your calls and emails to receive further information or materials.  If you have more specific questions about living with lupus  in Oregon, contact us here and I will connect you with local resources to fit your situation.

Of course, there are many other amazing lupus organizations on the internet (for example, research and advocacy and education,community-building and diversity)  and several bloggers who also offer their suggestions and stories.  As always, recognize that nothing can take the place of your physician and we strongly recommend that you take all information you read carefully.

Researching and reading is important in helping us cope with our illnesses, but always speak with your medical professional before implementing anything you come across.  Best intentions can still do a great deal of harm.

We don’t often think about men living with an illness and it is important that we learn from their experiences, as well.  Whether you’re a fan of Dr. Oz or not, I’m just glad he’s putting the discussion out there, giving us more opportunities to begin asking the question:

What is lupus?  (Sorry for the ads, but the video is a quick and informative source to get the gist)