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Through the support of individual contributions, we are able to offer emergency financial assistance to individuals diagnosed with lupus. For more information, please review the requirements for the Lupus Detroit Assistance Grant.

The 2021 - 2022 Lupus Detroit Scholarship cycle is now OPEN. Apply today. This is Attorney Todd Perkins. His wife Jetuan tragically passed away from lupus leaving behind two beautiful children. 

Jetuan Perkins

Lupus Detroit's Inaugural Walk Raises Over $6,000 in 2013

                                                                                                               Lupus Detroit held its Inaugural Fundraising Walk for Warriors on                                                                                                                     Saturday, September 7th. The event was held at and sponsored                                                                                                                       by midtown's New Center Park and The Refinement Group. The                                                                                                                       Walk drew more than 200 participants and raised over $5,000.

                                                                                                               The goal was to raise awareness and funds to help support                                                                                                                               Detroit area individuals who have been diagnosed with Lupus. “It’s                                                                                                                 always great to be educated about lupus because awareness is the                                                                                                                 key," said founder Sharon L. Harris. “However, awareness is not                                                                                                                       always enough. Michigan’s unemployment rate continues to hover                                                                                                                   around 8%. Many Michiganders are without the basic necessities                                                                                                                     such as toothpaste, soap and a warm home. Those suffering from                                                                                                                     the autoimmune disease lupus are faced with additional                                                                                                                                   challenges, the possibility of not being able to afford medication                                                                                                                     and doctors’ visits. This is where Lupus Detroit steps in.”

Andre Sanford, who was diagnosed with lupus attended the walk and expressed gratitude for the event. "This was a great experience for me,” said Sanford. “It felt good to be around people who know exactly how you feel and what you’re going through. It's hard when family and friends don't treat you as if your illness is real because you look normal on the outside. It's a struggle and a battle every day. There’s not a lot of info for men who have lupus, so that as well gets frustrating. To be able to share that experience with people who understand your pain meant the world to me."

Accompanied by police escorts from DPD’s Central District, participants walked south toward Wayne State University to spread their message. They were met by honks from passing motorists and other well-wishers on the street. The Walk's events included an appearance from R&B/soul artist Gwenation who performed “Believe” from her campaign bearing the same name. The campaign promotes self-esteem, self-awareness, empowerment, and achievement despite adversities. Detroit Councilwoman Brenda Jones also attended and presented Harris with a Spirit of Detroit award.

“There is so much that I want to say to those that attended and donated to the Lupus Walk," said Harris. “There isn't a strong enough word that can convey a powerful thank you! To this day, I am in awe of all the events. From the great energy, to the Lupus Warriors who showed up strong, to me being presented with an award, it was just an amazing day! I can't wait for next year's Walk!”