LUPUS AWARENESS MONTH ACTIVITY GUIDE
World Lupus Day
On May 10th, 2024 Lupus Canada will join others across the globe to recognize and celebrate World Lupus Day. World Lupus Day is sponsored by the World Lupus Federation and it serves to call attention to the impact that lupus has on people around the world. The annual observance focuses on the need for improved patient healthcare services, increased research into the causes of and cure for lupus, earlier diagnosis and treatment of lupus, and better epidemiological data on lupus globally.
World Lupus Day is under the direction of the World Lupus Federation, a coalition of lupus patient organizations from around the world, united to improve the quality of life for people affected by lupus. Through coordinated efforts of its global affiliates, the World Lupus Federation works to create greater awareness and understanding of lupus, provide education and services to people living with the disease, and advocate on their behalf. Lupus Canada is proud to be a partner in the effort to focus greater worldwide attention on this devastating disease. Efforts are underway to secure support for the proclamation by governments around the globe. On behalf of all Canadians impacted by lupus, we seek our government’s support in raising awareness for World Lupus Day. Learn more at https://worldlupusday.org/about.
World Lupus Day serves to rally lupus organizations and people affected by the disease around the world for a common purpose of bringing greater attention and resources to efforts to end the suffering caused by this disabling and potentially fatal autoimmune disease. Since 2004, lupus organizations around the globe have conducted activities on May 10 to raise awareness and educate the public about the symptoms and health effects of lupus. Together we can make lupus an international health priority and to ensure that people with lupus around the world are diagnosed and treated effectively.
Canada Illuminates in Purple for Lupus Awareness
There is no better way to celebrate Lupus Awareness Month than by shining purple in Canada. Lupus Canada is pleased to announce that Canadian landmarks will be illuminated in purple for Lupus Awareness Month.
These dates are crucial to supporting those who live with lupus, as well as, working to create more resources for those in need. It is our hope that by lighting significant landmarks throughout Canada we can create awareness for this debilitating disease. If you see a landmark illuminated in purple, please take a photo, share on social media and tag @LupusCanada.
*Please note that all efforts will be made to honour these illuminations listed; however, all the Canadian Landmark Managements reserve the right to adjust the lighting schedule as necessary without notice and this may result in: modifying the timing of the lighting, sharing the evening with another cause or rescheduling the date.
World Lupus Day Proclamations
By having the provinces proclaim May 10th as World Lupus Day in their legislature it demonstrates their support by recognizing this historic day, unites the people across the country who are affected by this disease, and brings greater attention to the lack of resources and unmet needs of those living with lupus.
Put On Purple
Show your support in finding a cure and help those living with lupus by wearing purple on May 10th! Wear purple to honor those living with lupus, remember those lost to this disease, and to support the progress we as a community are making to one day create a “Life Without Lupus”. We urge you to tell your families, friends, employers, physicians, and local community about World Lupus Day to get the word out and build excitement.
Share your photos or videos on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook and tag @LupusCanada or email them to info@lupuscanada.org.
The Disease Of A Thousand Faces Campaign
Lupus Canada is continuing to gather pictures of Canadians living with lupus for our Disease Of A Thousand Faces Campaign! Lupus Canada is hoping to gather 1,000 pictures of lupus warriors around the world by the end of the year. Share this campaign with your friends and through social media and help us reach our goal. Lupus is known as the “Disease of a Thousand Faces” due to its wide-ranging symptoms and ability to mimic other diseases.
To submit your photo or for more information visit https://www.lupuscanada.org/diseaseof1000faces/.
Create a Purple Butterfly with Loved Ones
Lupus, a complex autoimmune disease impacting people globally, underscores the importance of educating younger generations. The butterfly symbolizes lupus due to its resemblance to the rash often seen on cheeks and nose. Draw a purple butterfly with family or children to spark dialogue about lupus!
Provincial Lupus Organizations Lupus Awareness Initiatives
For specific Lupus Awareness Month activities taking place in your province, please contact your provincial lupus organization https://www.lupuscanada.org/provincial-lupus-organizations/.