May is Lupus Awareness Month

Dear Neighbor,

Lupus is more pervasive and severe than people think, and has a devastating impact that the public does not realize. That is why May is recognized as Lupus Awareness Month! Throughout the month of May, our goal is to increase public understanding of this cruel and mysterious chronic autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body - skin, joints, and/or organs. While lupus affects people of all races and ethnicities, African Americans — as well as Hispanics/Latinos, Asians, Pacific Islanders and Native Americans — are diagnosed with lupus 2-3 times more often than Caucasians.

Acknowledging these facts and seeing firsthand how lupus has adversely affected the lives of some of my close friends and neighbors, I was able to pass legislation last year in the New York State Legislature that created a lupus awareness license plate at the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The proceeds from the sale of this license plate will be used to fund research and lupus education and outreach initiatives across New York State.

Lupus is difficult to diagnose, a challenge to treat, and there is no cure. This Lupus Awareness Month, you can help spread knowledge and bring us closer to a future free from lupus. Wear purple during Lupus Awareness Month and especially on May 18 - #PutOnPurple Day.

I will continue to do my part and I encourage you to join me!

Yours in Service,

Kevin Parker

I encourage readers to click on the PDF to learn more.