This Mother’s Day giveback was created from a place of love, compassion, advocacy, and lived experience. At Lupus Lives Foundation Inc., we understand that mothers living with chronic illness often carry multiple roles at once: mother, caregiver, patient, provider, partner, supporter, and healer, while quietly battling challenges that are not always visible to others.
Many women spend so much time making sure everyone else is cared for that they neglect themselves emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Chronic illness can create financial burdens, emotional exhaustion, isolation, loss of identity, and feelings of guilt for simply needing rest. Yet despite these hardships, mothers continue to show up every day with strength, resilience, and unconditional love.
This initiative was created to remind mothers battling chronic illness that they are not forgotten. We wanted to create a small opportunity for women to pour back into themselves without guilt, to enjoy a meal, purchase something comforting, engage in self-care, or simply feel appreciated during a season that can sometimes feel emotionally heavy.
While a gift card may seem small to some, we hope that the meaning behind it leaves a lasting impact. This giveback is a reminder that your sacrifices are seen, your journey matters, and your life holds value beyond your diagnosis.
At Lupus Lives Foundation, we believe healing also comes through community, support, encouragement, and knowing that someone cares. This initiative represents our commitment to uplifting individuals battling chronic and invisible illnesses while reminding them that they are still worthy of joy, softness, rest, and celebration.
You matter. You are valued. You are loved. 💜
The Winners
Michelle Sullivant
Robertsville, MO
Living with Discoid and Systemic Lupus has been extremely painful and limiting. At times, it feels like my body has become a prison, leaving me trapped within its struggles. Alongside lupus, I also battle fibromyalgia and epilepsy, which makes everyday life challenging. I currently work as a nurse on an as-needed basis, only 8–12 hours a week, yet it takes me nearly three days to recover from just one shift. Despite everything, I continue to push forward and care for others, often placing myself last. If selected, I would use this gift as an opportunity to finally pour back into myself and practice self-care in a meaningful way. I truly appreciate your support and kindness.
Shante Byrd
Rex, GA
In 2008, lupus entered my life unexpectedly through a severe, undiagnosed flare that attacked my kidneys and immediately placed me on dialysis. The damage to my kidneys eventually led to the need for a kidney transplant. I remained on dialysis for seven and a half years before receiving a successful kidney transplant on March 21, 2016. Today, I am proudly celebrating 10 years post-transplant, and I give all glory to God, my family, and my support system for helping me through this journey. Although lupus changed many aspects of my life, it never stopped me from being a mother. I am blessed with two beautiful children, but my nurturing spirit extends far beyond biology. I strive to be a mother figure to anyone who needs love, support, or guidance. If selected, I would use this gift to take time for self-care and celebrate the resilience it has taken to continue thriving through every challenge.
Anonymous
Durham, NC
I am a proud Lupus Warrior who has learned to keep pushing forward despite the daily challenges that come with chronic illness. So often, I place the needs of others before my own and forget to take time for myself. If selected, I would use this gift to pamper myself and engage in self-care as a reminder that I deserve love, care, and attention too.