By Landon LaPenna/reporter
The NW dance program will participate in Dallas’ Walk to End Lupus in support of one of their own April 14.
NW student Deardre Randolph has lupus and is in the dance program, so the program is sponsoring her team to raise awareness and support her, said NW dance associate professor Amy Jennings.
“The event will bring knowledge of how serious this disease is and encourage students to spread the word, leading to anyone at risk to get treated early on and live a healthy life,” she said.
Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans, according to the Lupus Foundation of America.
It occurs when the immune system attacks tissues and organs.
Body parts like joints, skin, blood cells and the heart can all be damaged by the disease.
“People with lupus can experience significant symptoms, such as pain, extreme fatigue, hair loss, cognitive issues and physical impairments that affect every facet of their lives,” according to the foundation’s website.
Lupus is not a contagious disease, nor is it like or related to cancer, HIV or AIDS. The most common victims are women of Asian or African ancestry.
However, people of all races and ethnic groups can develop it.
People with lupus who are treated by a doctor and receive adequate medical care can often lead a full life.
The Walk to End Lupus raises funds to support research, education and advocacy and provide patient support for Americans affected by the disease, Jennings said.
The walk will take place April 14 at the Verizon Theater in Grand Prairie.
To register for the walk, go to www.lupus.org/action/walk-to-end-lupus-now then select the “Dallas, TX” walk April 14.
To join Randolph’s team, click “join team” and search “Deardre and the Palm Tree Patties,” which is the team name.
Participants can sign up for the walk through the day of the event, and those not participating in the walk can donate to the team online.
“Students are encouraged to come out and support Randolph while having an amazing adventure,” Jennings said.
