Barbara
About Barbara
Barbara Leech is a mom of four who gave up her career as a reporter and editor of two weekly newspapers in Southern New Hampshire to be a work-at-home mom and autoimmune disease warrior. Within her personal battle with fibromyalgia, lupus, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, she is an advocate for greater public awareness and raising funds toward research and improved treatments for these and other autoimmune diseases.
Her overall mission is to be the best mom and writer she can be, despite the challenges of living with a chronic illness. Barbara lives in Maine with her husband Adam, and they have two young sons together. Her two older daughters are grown (25 and 28). One is married, and the other is planning a summer 2016 wedding in the Mountains of New Hampshire.
Barbara considers herself a survivor of all things: fibromyalgia, lupus, Hashimoto’s, divorce, and starting over. She is passionate about family, faith and small victories.
For work, Barbara telecommutes, writing for a strategic advising firm in Massachusetts. On the side, she is a freelance writer for daily newspapers and business magazines throughout New England and a blogger on topics of health, parenting, and real estate. She also provides freelance editing and copywriting services for several businesses throughout the country.
Barbara's Work
Living With Lupus Skin Rashes
There are four different kinds of rashes that can occur with lupus. Lupus warriors Elena Anciro and Barbara Leech discuss their experiences with lupus rash.
Is Lupus Affected By Menopause?
"How does lupus activity behave during menopause? Does menopause influence the course of SLE activity or not?" Barbara investigates lupus and menopause.
The Question We’re Afraid to Ask: Can Lupus Be Fatal?
Is lupus fatal? I think we all have moments where we wonder what will happen to us, but it is important to focus on the fight and to keep our faith.
When Lupus Affects Your Lungs
Pain from pleurisy is found in 40 to 60 percent of people with lupus. Understand more about pleurisy and lupus to take control and get proper treatment.
How Lupus Could Be Causing Your Anemia
How are lupus and anemia connected? Anemia affects about half of all people with lupus. Fatigue is usually the first symptom, and is also the most common.
Making Everyday Life With Lupus Easier
Living with lupus is a constant battle. Here are some strategies for taking on (and surviving) everyday tasks — superhero cape optional!
Your Thanksgiving With Lupus Survival Guide
Thanksgiving with lupus can be exhausting and hard on your health. Barbara shares her tips for surviving your Thanksgiving festivities.
How to Cope While Driving With Lupus
"With lupus as my copilot, it is not a comfortable ride," Barbara shares her tips staying comfortable while driving with lupus.