Shortly after moving to Seattle almost 5 months ago, I was diagnosed with Lupus. It has been a roller coaster, honestly. I have good days and bad days. I consider myself in the denial phase where everything I read sounds like me and my symptoms but I still think "That's not me. I am not 'chronically ill'". I recently picked up a book that has been helpful in demystifying Lupus for me. The First Year - Lupus by Nancy C. Hanger

"Lupus, a serious rheumatological, autoimmune disease found predominantly in women, affects the connective tissues and linings throughout the body. Because of the diversity of its symptoms and severity with which it can manifest, it remains one of the most difficult conditions to identify and diagnose. Since her diagnosis with the disease, author Nancy C. Hanger educated herself on every aspect of her condition. Now, as a "patient-expert," she guides those newly diagnosed step-by-step through their first year with lupus."

The majority of people don't even know what it is. I didn't. I remember hearing someone had Lupus a while ago and my reaction was an audible gasp, followed by "Oh my god! You're kidding" Meanwhile, I had no idea what it was. It's one of those diseases that they use on soap operas when the writers need something that is just enigmatic enough that they can get away with putting their heroine in a wheelchair without anyone questioning its legitimacy.