Autoimmune disease in the news (Queen Latifah)

[ammasgirl]

I know Venus Williams is a figure who inspires divided opinions, given her penchant for declaring she's "defeated" her illness, and not wanting to be seen as someone who has an incurable disease. Thought it was interesting, then, that Queen Latifah is in the news this week, as she talks about her mother who has scleroderma. I've read only this excerpt, but clearly she talks about how much her mother goes through, and how much she does to support her mother. I think the intention is clear: to bring more attention to the disease to foster research, and to de-stigmatize the chronically ill and their caregivers who are so often seen as weak. I've been told many times in the last few months that I shouldn't be "throwing my life away" to care for my mother who is, after all, "not that sick". 

It was supposed to be on the cover of People Magazine this week, until George Clooney got engaged, but I do still hope it inspires some discussion and elucidation of autoimmune diseases.

People doesn't come out until Friday in my area (DC) but the excerpt is here: Queen Latifah/Scleroderma

[litliwlowa]

I've been told many times in the last few months that I shouldn't be "throwing my life away" to care for my mother who is, after all, "not that sick". 

Woah, I am so sorry you're subjected to such indifference and ignorance from others for caring for your mother. You're not throwing your life away at all!!

Thank you for sharing the Latifah People article excerpt. It's a refreshing change to see a family member so involved in caring for her mother.

This statement in the article I really liked and agree with:

"Anyone who has a job and then has a family member at home who is ill, it's 24 hours. You have to be there. They need you," says Latifah

Now that is worthy of applause, in my view. We don't see too many high profile individuals being a a role model in this way.

[angeldancer]

It makes me think about my daughter coming home from the east coast.  I know she doesn't know what I go through because she has not been here in 4 years.  What will it be like for her to watch me with an AI and cancer.  It is tough looking at myself let alone see the pain in others eyes.  I pray she can handle it with faith hope trust and believe that I will survive this chapter in my life.  I hope she has a smile for me and a gentle touch.  I taught her to be self sufficient but is she too self sufficient whereas she can't handle a sick mom and an autistic brother. 

I am glad people are beginning to put a voice to autoimmune diseases and next maybe a cure, one AI at a time.  I am hopeful.

[Velcro]

We (The Scleroderma Foundation Board) were so excited when she came out with this.  Bog Saget has always been very verbal about the disease, having a Sister who passed from it.  Queen Latifah has such a following and hope she continues to help bring awareness.  I hate her Mother has it, but kudos to Mom for opening up about it.