Purple haze on York for Lupus

Gallery Update

GEORGE NEWS - A total of 101 supporters clad in purple and black joined a Lupus awareness walk on Saturday at Unity Park in York Street. Those affected by the disease walked five kilometres, from the top end of York Street down to the traffic lights at Nelson Mandela Boulevard and back.

According to Lupus survivor and one of the organisers, Danelle Ontong, the disease is little understood and often misdiagnosed.

A support group for local Lupus sufferers was established recently, falling under Andrea's Gift, an organisation that aims to bring awareness of the disease.

The youngest Lupus warrior - as those living with the disease are affectionately called - is the twelve-year-old Joshua van Rooyen, one of the 17 members of the local Lupus support group.

Flanked by his parents and other supporters, he beamed as the group took to the streets, led by roaring motorbikes and banners.

On behalf of Andreas Gift George support group, Jocelyn Geweldt and Danelle Ontong, the organisers of the event, thanked all the sponsors that helped to make it a special day, especially the mayor's office.

Unity Park saw those affected by Lupus unite in a common cause. In front from left are Chrizelle Moolman, Zarah Gcuwa (6), and Summer Geweldt (8). Back: Jackie Geweldt, Sharoné Geweldt holding baby Christin Geweldt and Danelle Ontong. Photos: Michelle Pienaar

Supporters and survivors of Lupus took part in an awareness walk last Saturday.

Interesting Lupus facts

Nearly two thirds of the public knows nothing or little beyond the name of the disease.
Lupus is an unpredictable and misunderstood autoimmune disease that affects different parts of the body.
The immune system loses its ability to tell the difference between foreign substances and its own cells and tissue.
The immune system then makes antibodies directed at itself.
Symptoms of Lupus include headaches, extreme fatigue, painful swollen joints, muscle pain, anaemia, skin rash, abnormal blood clotting, mouth and nose ulcers, sun or light sensitivity and a butterfly rash across the cheeks and nose.

Kodak moment. From left are Denise Whitting, Lupus warrior Ledene Whitting (30), Wilma Windwaai and Maryda Squire.