ABC-7 speaks with woman diagnosed with lupus, now getting therapy
The Lupus Foundation of America estimates that 1.5 million Americans have a form of lupus. Data from the foundation shows there are at least 16,000 new cases diagnosed per year.
It’s often called one of the world’s cruelest, most unpredictable and devastating diseases.
Lupus strikes without warning and can have effects that last a lifetime. There is no known cause or cure of lupus, but there is hope.
“I went from not being able to get out of the bed or even move from the bed at all to walking and getting up,” Jessica Jordan, a patient diagnosed with lupus said.
Jordan told ABC-7 it all started when she took a plane trip to visit family in El Salvador.
“I thought I had eaten something bad on the plane,” Jordan said.
Jordan was diagnosed with lupus in March.
“Lupus is an autoimmune disorder,” said Dr. Angelo Romagosa, Del Sol Medical Center, medical director.
Romagosa told ABC-7 the disease essentially causes the body to attack its own cells.
“It affects the joints, the skin, it affects multiple organ systems,” Romagosa said.
The heart, lungs, brain and kidneys are usually affected by the disease.
People with lupus can experience pain, extreme fatigue, hair loss and physical impairments that affect every facet of their lives.
Jordan has been at the Del Sol Rehab Center for two weeks.
“She’s receiving physical therapy and occupational therapy twice a day. They are working on strengthening her extremities and building back her muscle,” Romagosa said.
“I’m moving again I’m exercising,” said Jordan.
Romagosa says as long as a patient is diagnosed early, receives the right therapy and is continually monitored by a specialist, “Lupus patients can have a good quality of life.” Romagosa said.
As Jordan continues her therapy to wellness, she’s already looking forward to her future.
“I’m on the road to recovery and going back home with my girls and my family,” Jordan said.
According to the Lupus Foundation of America, the prognosis of lupus is better today than ever before. With close follow-up and treatment, 80-90% of people with lupus can expect to live a normal life span.
