The mission of the Memphis Lupus Support Group is to enhance the quality of life for all lupus patients by means of research, education, advocacy, and support initiatives.

The Memphis Lupus Support Group is a non-profit organization founded in 2016 to address the needs of individuals affected by lupus in the Memphis area and surrounding counties.

The Memphis Lupus Support Group is committed to addressing the specific needs of those impacted by Lupus, acknowledging the healthcare disparities they face. Notably, women aged 15-44 constitute 90% of Lupus cases, with African American women and women of color being at higher risk of Lupus diagnosis.

The Memphis Lupis Support Group plays a crucial role in the Mid-South region, particularly after the closure of a nationally recognized lupus organization, leaving a void in lupus support in Memphis. Focused on providing a supportive community and addressing the unique challenges lupus patients face, the Memphis Lupus Support Group is dedicated to raising awareness, improving access to resources, and advocating for increased funding for lupus research. Our Lupus Care and Empowerment Initiative comprises programs such as the Patient Empowerment Network, Co-Pay Relief, One Stop Shop, and Transportation Assistance.

This nonprofit actively collaborates with community organizations, forming partnerships with over 10 leading patient advocacy groups. It strongly emphasizes community involvement, seeking to connect people with communities that can offer support for the physical, emotional, and practical aspects of dealing with life-threatening, chronic, and rare diseases.

Since the Memphis Lupus Support group largely serves low-to-moderate-income individuals, part of what they provide is financial support to cover the cost of medications and copays. Through various programs, the Memphis Lupus Support Group aims to provide financial assistance to patients and raise public awareness, develop self-management programs, and foster partnerships at the local, regional, and national levels. The organization's vision extends beyond immediate support to advocating for public policies that increase funding for lupus research and education, aiming to improve the well-being of those affected by lupus in the Memphis community and beyond.

The urgent need to support individuals affected by lupus is unmistakable in the heart of Memphis and its surrounding areas. Lupus imposes a significant burden, both physically and economically, on those living with the disease. The complexities of lupus often lead to increased healthcare costs, including medication expenses and copays, exacerbating the financial strain on affected individuals. The obstacles are particularly daunting for low to moderate-income individuals as they confront challenges in accessing essential resources and support. The Lupus Care and Empowerment Initiative (LCEI) emerges as a beacon of hope in this landscape of adversity. LCEI is not merely a set of programs; it represents a lifeline for those navigating the intricate and overwhelming journey of lupus. By offering financial assistance and legal support and addressing transportation barriers, LCEI becomes a catalyst for change, aiming to alleviate the burdens faced by individuals with lupus in Memphis. This initiative is not just about support; it embodies empowerment, recognizing the vital role that holistic care plays in enhancing the quality of life for those impacted by lupus. In the face of limited resources and persistent obstacles, the Lupus Care and Empowerment Initiative stands as a vital force, advocating for and uplifting individuals, ensuring they receive the comprehensive assistance needed to navigate the challenges of living with lupus. We currently support 85 individuals and families dealing with Lupus.

Lupus Care and Empowerment Initiative (LCEI) and Its Programs:

The Lupus Care and Empowerment Initiative (LCEI) is a comprehensive program developed by the Memphis Lupus Support Group to address the multifaceted needs of individuals affected by lupus. LCEI consists of several key programs:

Patient Empowerment Network:

We provide assistance to financially and medically qualified patients, including those insured through government programs, for co-payments, co-insurance, and deductibles required by a patient’s insurer for medications. This involves financial assistance, guidance on navigating insurance processes, and support for medication-related costs.

Copay Relief:

We alleviate financial burdens for individuals impacted by lupus, ensuring access to essential medications and treatments through disseminating information about available financial resources, navigating insurance coverage, and providing direct financial support for co-payments.

One Stop Shop (Legal Advice, State Program Assistance):

The objective of One Stop Shop is to assist low-income individuals and families in finding and applying for a wide range of government resources. This includes offering free to low-cost legal and tax services. This also encompasses legal advice, assistance with accessing state programs, and providing resources to address legal and financial challenges related to lupus.

Transportation Assistance:

We provide recipients with transportation assistance to access crucial health services, social connections, and support, thereby addressing potential transportation challenges. We engage in efforts to identify transportation needs, coordinate transportation services, and integrate research findings into transportation assistance strategies.

Collectively, these programs aim to enhance the overall well-being of individuals affected by lupus by addressing financial constraints, legal challenges, and transportation barriers. The Lupus Care and Empowerment Initiative takes a holistic approach, recognizing the importance of both medical and socio-economic support.

Be a change agent today! Support the Memphis Lupus Support Group with a generous donation.

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Memphis Lupus Support Group

By Elizabeth Gillespie

Memphis Lupus Support Group

Empower Hope, Unite for Lupus: Memphis Strong!

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