Press Release
Lupus Awareness Month 2024 Launches with Inspiration and Community Spirit
Kingston, Jamaica – October 9, 2024
The Lupus Foundation of Jamaica (LFJ) officially launched Lupus Awareness Month 2024 with two powerful events aimed at inspiring hope and fostering awareness. The launch began with an impactful evening gathering at Winchester Business Center, 15 Hope Road, followed by a deeply moving church service at Bethel Baptist Church on Sunday, October 13. These events drew together lupus patients, medical professionals, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate resilience and advocate for greater understanding and support for those living with lupus.
The theme for this year’s observance, "LFJ - Celebrating 40 Years: Empowering Lives, Inspiring Hope," underscores the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to uplifting lupus warriors through education, advocacy, and support. LFJ President Desiree Tulloch-Reid noted, “This month is a time for us to unite, educate, and advocate. Our goal is to empower patients and foster greater community understanding.”
The Lupus Awareness Month Launch Event
Held at the Winchester Business Center, the launch event was both inspiring and educational. Attended by over 40 participants, the evening featured poignant testimonials from lupus warriors Sheane Robinson and Easton McKoy, whose stories of courage and resilience deeply moved the audience. These testimonials were complemented by updates on LFJ’s ongoing initiatives and a thought-provoking keynote speech delivered by David Wan, LFJ Development Director and Managing Director of the Development Bank of Jamaica.
One of the highlights of the evening was a presentation on the state of lupus awareness and treatment in Jamaica, offering a sobering yet hopeful look at the progress and challenges faced by the lupus community. Adding to the event’s atmosphere of inspiration, Warren Harris delivered stirring musical performances that resonated with attendees. The night culminated with the unveiling of a calendar of activities planned for Lupus Awareness Month. These include community outreach programs, educational webinars, and the much-anticipated “Laps for Lupus Awareness” lapathon.
Lupus Awareness Month Church Service
The observance continued with a heartfelt church service at Bethel Baptist Church, designed to spiritually uplift and support individuals affected by lupus. The service featured special prayers for lupus warriors and their families, led by church leaders and community members. Attendees were inspired by a moving sermon delivered by Rev. Dr. Glenroy Lalor, who emphasized the power of compassion and collective action in addressing the challenges faced by lupus patients.
During the service, LFJ President Desiree Tulloch-Reid delivered greetings, reinforcing the Foundation’s dedication to advocacy and support. The event concluded with a special blessing for all attendees, leaving everyone present with a renewed sense of purpose and a call to action for continued community involvement and advocacy.
Planned Activities for Lupus Awareness Month
The Lupus Foundation of Jamaica has organized a robust lineup of events and initiatives to mark Lupus Awareness Month 2024. These activities are designed to educate, engage, and empower both lupus warriors and the broader community.
Highlights include:
● Public Awareness Campaigns utilizing social media, media interviews, and special feature stories to amplify lupus awareness.
● Community Engagement Initiatives that include outreach programs targeting workplaces, schools, and churches, encouraging inclusive discussions and support.
● Signature Events such as the annual Laps for Lupus Awareness Lapathon, interactive educational programs tailored for patients and their families, and a 40th Anniversary Awards Luncheon celebrating decades of impact and advocacy.
● Annual Lupus Symposium, which serves as a critical platform for medical professionals, patients, and the public to exchange knowledge and foster collaboration in lupus care and treatment.
Join the Movement
The Lupus Foundation of Jamaica invites all Jamaicans to participate in these impactful activities and help shine a light on lupus. Together, we can support those affected and work towards a future where lupus is better understood and effectively managed.
To stay informed and get involved, visit the Foundation’s website at https://lupusfoundationjamaica.org. You can also follow LFJ on social media for updates and educational content:
● Facebook: @LupusFoundationJamaica
● Instagram: @LupusFoundationJamaica
● Twitter: @LupusJa
● YouTube: Lupus Foundation of Jamaica
● LinkedIn: Lupus Foundation of Jamaica
For inquiries, contact the Foundation at +1 (876) 778-3892 or via email at executivedirector@lupusfoundationjamaica.org.
About the Lupus Foundation of Jamaica
Since its establishment in 1984, the Lupus Foundation of Jamaica has been dedicated to improving the lives of lupus patients through advocacy, education, and support. As the leading voice for lupus awareness in Jamaica, LFJ continues to empower individuals and communities while advancing the fight against lupus on a global scale.