Meet SELENA

Selena Colon, diagnosed at 24
I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis in November of 2019 at the age of 24. Six months prior to my diagnosis is when I began to notice my symptoms. I had recurring skin infections and a butterfly rash that I mistook for sunburn. I was also experiencing hair loss and body swelling. My swelling was so bad that I felt like my skin was about to burst open. After an ER visit and three doctors visits, a nephrologist ordered a kidney biopsy and diagnosed me with lupus nephritis. Not knowing what my future holds in terms of my diagnosis worries me sometimes, but I prioritize my health without letting it negatively consume me. I now use my platform to share my experiences, speak on mindset changes and lifestyle shifts, and to take control of the condition and the effects it has on you. Not only is “Be Fierce. Take Control.” a Lupus Foundation of America campaign, it’s my personal slogan as well.

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