My Story: Kimberly James

What were the steps leading up to your diagnosis?

I was 20 years old when I was diagnosed. I felt old and I was always tired. I was pregnant with my second child, and was continually having bladder/kidney problems. It seemed as if they wouldn’t clear up or go away, no matter the antibiotics. I began to get weak in sunlight. After several tests, I was diagnosed with lupus. My pregnancy was a success and I was blessed with another daughter.

What lifestyle changes have you needed to make?

I used to love the outdoors, but now I admire it from the window. I listen to my body and when I'm fatigued I stop and rest. I have learned that my diet plays a vital role in beating this disease. It has been an emotional rollercoaster, but God is faithful. Sunglasses have become my best friend and I love autumn and spring. I feel strongest during those seasons, so that is when we do our family outings. Lupus hasn't stopped me from living, it just causes me to think, listen and pray in order to defeat it.

Who has been there for you? How?

My parents, my four daughters, my ministry, friends and loved ones. I can honestly say that I have a great support system.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

Despite lupus and divorce, I have had a successful life. God has blessed me tremendously. I have a great relationship with my family and I don't take it for granted. To me, that is the best accomplishment outside of waking up every morning. Being able to walk in the grace and love of God and being able to share my testimony with others.

Lupus hasn't stopped me from living, it just causes me to think, listen and pray in order to defeat it.

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Look at everyday as a blessing and leave nothing that God places before you undone.

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What's your advice to someone else living with Lupus?

My advice would be gain a relationship with God and focus on what's most important – family. Do what you can, and let the rest fall where it may. Listen to your doctors and your body. Eat right, exercise and pray. Look at everyday as a blessing and leave nothing that God places before you undone.

I have lupus but lupus doesn't have me.

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Is there anything else we should know?

I am a 37-year-old-woman with four beautiful girls. My motto is: I have lupus but lupus doesn't have me. God's word states, “I'm a victorious.” That means I win every time. What's lupus to God? Nothing!

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Acknowledge that there will be bad days, no matter how positive you try to be.— Jill Ocone

Lupus is much more manageable now and people with lupus are living longer, fuller lives!— Frances Wilson

Whatever you want to do in life, just know it’s still possible. You just might need to plan it a different way, but you can do it.— Valeciea C. Baker

Comments by Vanilla

June 26

Thank you for sharing, fellow Lupus Warrior.

March 18

Good for you honey, it's hard to admit when you've reached a limit , but it must be done. Treasure your family, they can provide support when you can't.

March 17

It's so hard,getting up and going but once I'm up and out & spending time with family & going to church really helps me.

March 17

I do what I can and when I can and take my time at doing it

March 18

Amen!

December 19

Read all you can about this disease. The lupus encyclopedia Is a good reference source..Dr. thomas has a facebook page where you can ask questions and get advise. He wrote the book.

December 19

It's will be a bumpy ride. Be strong! Best wishes to you, from a fellow Lupie 💜

December 19

you have lupus, lupus does not have you! get plenty of rest and exercise

December 19

I love your faith in God & additude. I'm also a person with lupus.

December 19

Taking care Yourself New Lupie💜💜stay strong

December 19

God Bless, Stay Strong from a fellow Lupie