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Lupus Community

Last Reply:

I'm new

SloanD posted:

Hi. One of my very dear friends has just been diagnosed with Lupus, and recently I found out another friend from childhood has it. I have been trying to educate myself regarding Lupus. I understand the definition, but what I really want to know, please, is what is the best way for me to be there for my frineds. They both live far from me and I don't have a vehicle. However, I am more concerned with the emotional aspect of this. How can I be emotionally supportive? And what is the best way to show continued support? Please advise. All suggestions are welcome, and I am new to this so forgive my naivety as I am still trying to educate myself.

2 Replies |Watch This Discussion | Report This| Share this:I'm newHi. One of my very dear friends has just been diagnosed with Lupus, and recently I found out another friend from childhood has it. I have been trying to educate myself regarding Lupus. I understand the definition, but what I really want to know, please, is what is the best way for me to be there for my frineds. They both live far from me and I don't have a vehicle. However, I am more concerned with the emotional aspect of this. How can I be emotionally supportive? And what is the best way to show continued support? Please advise. All suggestions are welcome, and I am new to this so forgive my naivety as I am still trying to educate myself.

shannielee74 responded:

The best thing I can tell you is to be sympathetic and understanding, but don't pity them. I had to sit one of my friends down and explain to her that while I appreciated the sympathy the looks of pity were too much and if she couldn't cope with me having lupus then I'd rather end the friendship. She went to the Lupus Foundation office in our area and got a lot of info from them. She is now one of my best emotional supporters.
The second best thing is to find the local chapter of the Lupus foundation and get as much info from them as you can. You can also make sure your friends are aware of the local chapter.
The third best thing you've already done.....you are here looking for answers and wanting to be there emotionally for your friends. I wish all of my friends had been like you. Too many people think they will 'catch it' if they are around someone with lupus for too long. Just be there, listen and help when/where you can.
Best of luck to your friends.

Shannielee74
~~~Life is what happens when your busy making other plans...John Lennon~~~

Report This| Share this:I'm newThe best thing I can tell you is to be sympathetic and understanding, but don't pity them. I had to sit one of my friends down and explain to her that while I appreciated the sympathy the looks of pity were too much and if she couldn't cope with me having lupus then I'd rather end the friendship. She went to the Lupus Foundation office in our area and got a lot of info from them. She is now one of my best emotional supporters.<br />The second best thing is to find the local chapter of the Lupus foundation and get as much info from them as you can. You can also make sure your friends are aware of the local chapter. <br />The third best thing you've already done.....you are here looking for answers and wanting to be there emotionally for your friends. I wish all of my friends had been like you. Too many people think they will 'catch it' if they are around someone with lupus for too long. Just be there, listen and help when/where you can. <br />Best of luck to your friends.

SloanD replied to shannielee74's response:

thank you so much! I appreciate your response. Take care!

Report This| Share this:I'm newthank you so much! I appreciate your response. Take care! <img src="http://img.webmd.com/community/images/smile.gif" align="top" border="0">

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