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Not The End Of Me

The Lupie Chick


Not The End Of Me
Who am I?
I don’t know…
Had I become that person I so despise?
My thoughts
Deep, dark, and unrecognizable
Who am I?
Did I just give up?
Given up on life, love, my passions, and everything in between
Who am I?
A cry baby
Weak
Distorted thoughts
State of confusion
Broken Spirit
Negative
Shaken
Stirred
Who am I?
A silent voice and distant eyes
That no one hears my cry’s
Who am I?
Drowning in the depths of sorrow,
with no tears left to cry.
Who am I?
© The Lupie Chick 2013

I’ve been was battling depression for the past 6 months. A lot of stress triggers has occurred with my relocation to Georgia, my employment, my health, and a multitude of other things. I leaned heavily on my sister- friends that keep praying for my recovery and strength to come out of this dark space. I was having uncontrollable crying spells, insomnia, panic attacks, nightmares (when I would finally sleep) and just an overall feeling of failure. I wanted to die. In my opinion, my spirit was already dead. I was in a very dark mind space and I couldn’t see my way out. While at one of my doctor visits, the doctor was asking me questions and I just looked up at him (as if I was possessed by a demon) and blurted out “I really don’t give a fuck right now.. Whatever you want to do is fine with me, I’m ready to go” I stood up and WALKED OUT, crying as I left his office. Later that evening I received a recorded call from Kroger pharmacy telling me my prescription was ready. [Insert demonic look and gas face] “What damn prescription?? I figured it was a wrong number and I ignored the message. 2 days later I received the recorded call again, I was in Kroger ( at Starbucks) and figured I would go over there and tell them to stop calling me ( they were using my day time minutes and I don’t have any to spare). When I reached the counter, the pharmacist acknowledged that I did have a prescription and it was ready. 
ME:  “YOU CAN KEEP IT- I HAVE NO INSURANCE & NO MONEY!”
Pharmacist: “Ms Dugar your cost is $4 and if you have Kroger points I can reduce that to $2” Me: [face twisted and annoyed] fine [mumbling and grumbling]
Pharmacist: Please step to the counseling window
ME: Continue face twisting/mumbling/grumbling
Pharmacist: You have been prescribed Zoloft. Zoloft is known to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and panic disorder. This medicine is an antidepressant called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
ME: [insert, hand on hip, pissed off stance] so what exactly are you saying because I didn’t ask for this?
Pharmacist: Ma’am you may want to call your physician, this prescription was called in
ME: Yeah, I’ma call him [pulls out phone and call doctor office]
After calming down a little and speaking with my physician, I now understand that his prescription wasn’t an insult to my mental stability; it was care, concern, and very well NEEDED! My physician began to tell me he sensed that I was stressed and I was displaying signs of depression. After finishing up the call, I went home, got on the Internet to do additional research.“Between 15 and 60 percent of people with a chronic illness will experience clinical depression. This may be brought on by lupus, by the various medications used to treat lupus, and/or by any of the factors and forces in a person’s life that are not related to lupus. For reasons that are not entirely understood, this type of depression is often experienced by people with chronic disease.”Lupus Foundation of America. 
 I encourage anyone that exhibits any of the following to consult with a physician.
·  Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
·  Sadness
·  Crying (often without reason)
·  Insomnia or restless sleep, or sleeping too much
·  Changes in appetite leading to weight loss or weight gain
·  Feelings of uneasiness, anxiety, or irritability
·  Feelings of guilt or regret
·  Lowered self-esteem or feelings of worthlessness
·  Inability to concentrate or difficulty thinking
·  Diminished memory and recall
·  Indecisiveness
·  Lack of interest in things formerly enjoyed
·  Lack of energy
·  General slowing and clouding of mental functions
·  Diminished sexual interest and/or perfor­mance
·  Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
I’ve exhibited 15 out of the 16 signs above. As a friend or a family member- please do not assume that a person is having a pity party or just “need to get over it”. There were moments I wanted to die, and a friend response to me was “oh Sixx, come on now, you’re having a pity party”. Depression is very serious and HARD to overcome. I’m not 100% recovered (even with the help of Zoloft).  I take it day by day-sometimes-minute by minute. When I say THANK YOU [to my my inner circle]-it’s not just 2 words. I know I have a praying circle around me-and you’re prays has kept me covered. [ praise & testimony]
Facts About Clinical Depression and Lupus
  • Between 15 and 60 percent of people with a chronic illness will experience clinical depression.
  • Clinical depression may be a result of the ways in which lupus physically affects your body.
  • Some of the medicines to treat lupus—especially corticosteroids such as prednisone (and at higher doses of 20 mg or more)—play a role in causing clinical depression.
  • Clinical depression may be a result of the continuous series of emotional and psychological stressors associated with living with a chronic illness.
  • Clinical depression may be a result of neurologic problems or experiences unrelated to lupus.
  • Clinical depression also produces anxiety, which may aggravate physical symptoms (headache, stomach pain, etc.).
  • Two common feelings associated with clinical depression are hopelessness and helplessness. People who feel hopeless believe that their distressing symptoms may never improve. People who feel helpless believe they are beyond help—that no one cares enough to help them or could succeed in helping, even if they tried.
 Keep in Touch

Twitter: @lupieeChick
Instagram: @naturally_lupie
Email: lupiechick@gmail.com
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Farewell Mishinda

The Lupie Chick


Yesterday morning I was contacted by the aunt of one of my blog followers. I was taken aback by the call, as I’m super busy finalizing details for my upcoming event (Cupcakes & Cocktails). The caller sounded unsure as to whom she wanted to speak with.  As I waited to try and catch the voice she asked if she could speak with “The LupieChick”. I paused as I knew this was a Lupus related question as no one refers to me as the Lupie Chick in conversation. I acknowledged that I was the person she was looking for and she began to tell me about her niece, Mishinda. 
Mishinda was 26 years old, mother of 2, and had passed away from complications of Lupus on Sunday, February 24, 2013. I instantly felt my heart break (literally, I had a pain in my chest) as she began to speak about Mishinda. It pains me to hear stories of anyone lost their fight with  Lupus. Funny thing, she didn’t sound sad. She was laughing and telling me how Mishinda loved my blog and my willingness to just say whatever I wanted. Her favorite post was Am I Being A Bitch Or a BabyWe laughed as I was slightly embarrassed by the title of that post. Mishinda referred to me as a pistol whipper (lol…lol…). She commented that she looked forward to my daily pictures of me smiling (I haven’t posted any pictures of my face in a while, as I’m going through a flare up and have the butterfly rash across my face) and my reference to Lupus as Mister. 
Then, she suddenly  her tone of voice became serious. She stated that Mishinda asked her family to find me and get in contact with me because she wanted to speak to me. “ME????? “  Was my reply, as I never had any interaction with Mishinda? The family tried feverishly to find me, finally coming across my Facebook page, in which has my phone number listed. She asked me if I would attend the candle light virgil on Friday night to honor Mishinda. — INSERT A PAUSE AND A LUMP IN MY THROAT—ME????  Ya’ll know I have a fear of public speaking. She replied- YES, we would like you to come and speak. I told her that I’m not a medical professional, I refrain from giving medical advice, and I can only speak about my experiences and my desire to bring awareness. Her reply: “BE YOU – BE THE FUNNY LUPIE CHICK THAT MISHINDA SO LOVED AND ADMIRED” [insert uncontrollable crying]. 
After I stop crying, and contacted a few friends, as I was unsure if I should attend. I questioned my ability to speak publicly (I have a MAJOR fear…. stomach is in knots RIGHT now as I think about it), I questioned what would my presence bring, can I meet Mishinda’s expectations or the families expectations, what would I stand up there and say??, sweating, stiff and straight like a statue with nothing coming outta my mouth?? [Oh my!]. All my friends encouraged me to do it and to let God guide my words. I realize the honor and blessing. I pray that I can deliver and fight through this fear.  I will attend the candle light service, and honor my lupie sister Mishinda the best way I know how. I can hear my siStar now “Sixx, You better werk hunty” (lol…lol…lol…) DO THAT!!!!!
Fam, I write this blog with no hidden agenda. My ONLY agenda is to share my life, and my experience with Lupus. I have no idea the number of people with whom my blog had inspired, made laugh, cry, or angry but I’m grateful to each and every one of you. Mishinda has encouraged me to continue to push, fight, and advocate for all Lupie Chicks. I NOW realize that Lupus is my ministry. It’s my duty to be a voice and a face for the invisible disease. Please keep me prayed up as I enter this new chapter of my life. #LupieChicksUnite!!!!!!!

Twitter: @lupieeChick
Instagram: @naturally_lupie
Email: lupiechick@gmail.com

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I was nominated for a Health Activist Award!!!!

The Lupie Chick

I was nominated for a Best in Show: Community Award by Wego Health for
The Lupie Chicks
Please help endose my nomination Click Here: 

 
my URL is http://thelupiechick.blogspot.com/ or naturally_lupie ( instagram) takes 5 mins to vote!
 
Voting will end on December 31, 2012
 
Help me continue to bring awareness to Lupus one chick at a time!!!!
 
 
Twitter: @lupieeChick
 
Instagram: @naturally_lupie
 
 
Email: lupiechick@gmail.com
 
**click link above to be directed to team page**

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DAY 2: Advice For A Newly Diagnosed Lupus Patient #NHBPM

The Lupie Chick
Being diagnosed with lupus can bring about a flurry of emotions. You may feel upset or nervous about what the new diagnosis means for your future. You may be angry at the idea that your life may change. You may even feel happy that after some time of not feeling well, you finally have a name for what was ailing you. Finally, your condition has a name. Each of these emotions is normal, and no reaction is the right one. In fact, you may feel all of these emotions at some time or another.

But beyond your emotional reactions, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. Below are some tips for moving forward after being diagnosed with lupus.

1. Get a second opinion. Before you begin your journey into chronic health care, you want to make sure you are heading down the right path.

I didn’t get a 2nd opinion when I was first diagnosed. My dermatologist originally diagnosed me (I had the butterfly rash across my face, and lesions on my neck and under my breast). After she performed her examination she was “certain” it was Lupus and referred me to a rheumatologist & neurologist who ran additional test and confirmed that I had Lupus. Honestly, that was the best day of my life. It answered a lot of questions and FINALLY I KNEW that what I was experiencing wasn’t my imagination. After getting over the initial shock, I was ready to battle & WIN!!!!!

2. Bring a friend or family member to be an advocate for you. You may need to have some tests done and see many doctors in the beginning. Having someone else there to take notes, ask questions, or just be an emotional support is very important. It is normal to forget a question, or not remember important information after a doctor visit. It is also great to have a supportive person with you who can hold your hand, distract you, make you laugh, or just listen.
I have never had a friend or family member come with me to any of my appointments (well my husband has attended 2 or 3 ). There were times when I wanted “support” and then there were times when I was happy I was there alone. From my experience, I have found that when people don’t understand what is happening they can be very judgmental. Going through the motions and of trying to come to grips with everything- JUDGEMENT WAS THE LAST THING I NEEDED OR WANTED!

3. Start a notebook or a folder for your healthcare. Take notes and ask for copies of your test results. Take time to actually read your tests and learn what they mean, or ask your doctors. Keeping a record now is a great start. It’s always a much bigger job to back track and get records that you may need in the future. These records and notes can be helpful when you’re seeing multiple doctors, dealing with insurance companies, applying for disability, etc.
Yes, yes, yes!!!!! I started experiencing a “brain fog” and I would literally forget what someone told me only minutes previous. It’s imperative that you keep records and minimum keep notes or download one the apps on a smart phone that will store your medical records and or notes for you. I remember an incident when my rheumatologist  had prescribed me a medicine that counter acted something the neurologists prescribed me, I ended up with massive migraines and I wanted to die (I was in that much pain). Once I gathered everything out of  my cabinets, purse, and night stand, I  went back to the doctor, showed them everything I was taking, and they figured out exactly what the culprit was. From that point forward I have kept impeccable notes and I always keep a record of my prescriptions ( dosages, strength, etc).  

4. Do your research. After being diagnosed with lupus, you will soon hear all kinds of words that you may not have heard before. Names of medications, secondary diagnoses, and symptoms can be overwhelming and scary. A great way to combat this feeling is to learn as much about lupus as you can and get yourself familiar with the lingo. This will help empower you in conversations with doctors and nurses. When you know what they are talking about you can ask appropriate and necessary questions. WebMD is a great place to start on your quest to educate yourself. There are many articles, posts, and videos on the site that are very informative.
I can’t say this ENOUGH!!!!! DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH!!!!!! I’m often asked for advice relative to Lupus. While I appreciate strangers, family & friends comfort level to ask me for advice ( treatment, & diagnosis), I refrain from giving medical advice. It’s not that I don’t care or I don’t want to share information, I’m NOT A PHYSICAN. Legally I cannot provide medical advice. I’m more than willing to share what has/hasn’t worked for me, but that information should not be used in place of a diagnosis or treatment plan.   I have this disclaimer at the end of every post “The information included on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her health care provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.” I encourage all of you to always consult with a physician before starting/stomping any Treatment plan, Nutrition (eating) regime, and Fitness plan. If you are looking for information and or support, outside of speaking with your doctor, I HIGHLY suggest that you become a member of the Lupus Foundation of America Chapter (in your state). The Lupus Foundation of America offers symposiums, teleconference calls, empowering events and the largest support group network.

5. Ask questions!!! Do not be afraid to ask questions, even questions you deem silly or unimportant. If you feel any kind of change in your symptoms, tell your doctor. I cannot stress this enough. You are a partner with your doctor in your healthcare. You need to take an active role. You are the only person who knows your body best, so if something feels off, say so.
You have to be your own advocate and cheerleader in this fight!!!!! No matter how minor the question may seem, ASK IT!!!! Make no assumptions!!!! Make sure that the doctor/nurses are listening and providing you with the approriate answers. You must be active and aggressive in your treatment  plan !!!!
Tips Provided by Web MD  ( my responses are highlighted in purple)

Until Next Time,
Live ~ Laugh ~ Love
 ¸.· ´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*¨)
(¸.·´ (¸.·’   The Lupie Chick ™
Stay Connected
Instagram:@naturally_lupie
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mzSixx
Twitter: @lupieeChick & @AuNaturaleDC
The information included on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her health care provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.
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Day 1: Why I Write About My Health #NHBPM

The Lupie Chick
When I was first diagnosed with Lupus, I instantly took to the internet. I wanted to arm myself with as much information as possible. I was prepared to be over whelmed and immersed in everything regarding Lupus.  I was alarmed by the amount of “repetitive” information that was available. Everything was a repeat and very “ text book” .  I was clear what Lupus is (was), but I wasn’t clear as to how people lived with Lupus. What a day was like for a Lupie Chick ™.  How Lupus affected friendships/relationships/marriages.  How Lupus affected people’s mental state.  How Lupus affected peoples emotional/physical/sexual health. I had LOTS of questions.  I could not find what I was looking for; nothing was really answering what I wanted to know.  (For me), I needed visual, clear, concise answer(s). Based on the lack of information available, I decided to write from my perspective and keep it REAL & RAW (no sugar coating). If I was in pain I wanted to describe or show pictures of the type of pain or the intensity level of the pain. I was going to show my bare face (without makeup) and talk about the scares, the nasty remarks, and assumptions people make about you when you have an invisible disease. I wanted to provide an outlet for my fellow Lupie Chicks™ to know that they were not alone and we could cyber space high five each other.
I will never forget my first posting telling the world, I Have Lupus; people were calling me with tears in their voice telling me I had taken them on an emotional roller coaster. I heard from friends I havent from in years (more than 10).  It wasn’t my intention to make anyone cry or become upset, I wrote from the heart.  I wrote as if I was speaking to my girlfriends or family. I’ve found that my ability to be open and my style of writing works for the type of platform I’m building.
I’ve started posting daily pictures of myself saying Hello /Good Morning to my fellow lupies. If I miss a day, people will inbox me on Facebook or text me and say “where is our daily picture?”  I never knew that a simple picture would/could make someone’s day, or provide a little encouragement.  
Not too long ago, I received a mention on Twitter that said “because of the Lupie Chick I know more than I ever thought I could or wanted to know about Lupus and the struggle”.  I don’t know this young lady, never knew that she read my blog or tweets. I received a message from another young lady telling me “because of your blog I now know how to be a better friend “. I don’t get many (any) comments on my blog, and I wasn’t positive if anyone was reading my blog, UNTIL  I get the random messages, text,  or tags of people wearing purple, or mentions of “ The Lupie Chick”.  Just the other day, my hands had swollen and I was in severe pain. I posted a picture on line and a young lady asks “what’s lupus?”  I was in too much pain to type (reply) on my mobile, but I fought through and took a screen shot of the Lupus Foundation page explaining what Lupus is. Even in my mist of a challenge I was able to educate someone on this little known invisible disease.  I’m so honored and humbled to be able to do what I do, and I’m MORE honored and humbled to my readers and audience who help spread awareness.   I know that I will never stop writing, I will never stop bringing awareness, and I will never keep quiet – This is WHY I Write About My Health!
Until Next Time,
Live ~ Laugh ~ Love
Stay Connected
Instagram:@naturally_lupie
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mzSixx
Twitter: @lupieeChick & @AuNaturaleDC

The information included on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her health care provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.

Atlanta, aunaturale, autoimmune, diabetes, domestic violence, healthy, Iyanla Vanzant, life, lupie chick, lupus, lupus Awareness, majestic divas, mz sixx, peace, purple, womens health

Are you living in PEACE or PIECES??

The Lupie Chick



Painting by Yvette Crocker
Yesterday I spoke to an ex (whom I haven’t spoken to or seen in more than 17 years). He seems so broken dealing with a lot of heath issues (specifically diabetes) and the lost of his immediate family members. He had been dealing with a lot of guilt from situations that occurred during our relationship and had remained in that moment. Listening to him made me realize that we have life choices.  We can live in PEACE or PIECES! I realized that I choose peace while he had chosen pieces. Yes, I know it is very difficult and hurtful to lose all of you immediate family members, and it’s also difficult to live with an illness (the same illness that had taken the lives of his family), BUT you have to choose PEACE. Choose to deal with whatever is before you and GO THROUGH IT (not around it).
I think back on all the test that I’ve had to take to have this testimony I speak about today. I have no shame and no silence.  I survived sexual abuse, domestic violence abuse, the challenges of being a teenage parent, betrayal, mis fortune, financial instability, unemployment, and now fighting for dear life to beat Lupus. I FOUGHT and will CONTINUE to fight EVERYDAY for the rest of my life.  We all have a responsibility to live our best life (whatever that may be). I know that everything that has happened to me happened for a reason to make me realize just how AWESOME I really am. I’m much stronger than I ever knew or imagined I could be. Do I have fear-of course I do.. but I have taken lemons (my fears & life challenges) and turned them into champagne (success)! This is MY LIFE- and whatever the devil has taken from me- HE CAN KEEP IT- BECAUSE MY GOD HAS SOMETHING BETTER FOR ME!!!!! I choose to live in PEACE!
To all of you that read this post- I ask you- how you will live the rest of your life? In PEACE or PIECES????

Until Next Time Fam

Live.. Love.. Laugh…

The Lupie Chick™

Stay Connected
Instagram:@naturally_lupie
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mzSixx
Twitter: @lupieeChick & @AuNaturaleDC

The information included on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her health care provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.

Atlanta, autoimmune, beauty, DC, Falcons, Grandmother, lupie chick, lupus, lupus Awareness, mz sixx, natural hair, purple

Celebration of Life (My Life)

The Lupie Chick



Me- 41st Birthday



Yesterday was my 41st Birthday (yes, I’m in my forties honey… I don’t look a day over 30 -at least that’s what a twitter follower told me J lol..lol..) . Yesterday I took the time to reflect and appreciate the wonderful gift of life. This time last year I was still dealing with the diagnosis of Lupus and trying to figure out just how I would live. Besides a flare up and depression, what should have been a milestone celebration (my 40th birthday) was anything but. This year I decided things would be different. I’ve grown to accept that I will forever have lupus BUT Lupus won’t have me. I will NOT stop living. I will (and have) become an advocate and a glimmer of hope for all my lupie sistas who are still fighting. When I awoke yesterday (mainly from Face Book notifications – You guys were on it! Mini me had the first notification at 11:59 p.m. Saturday night), I immediately knelt down and THANK THE LORD for allowing me to live and survive another year-despite Lupus.



My New Grand daughter Mailia Elizabeth Fowler



I’m in a new city (I relocated to Atlanta), I became a grandmother for the 2nd time (hi Malia), my projects and businesses are thriving, I’m happy and BLESSED. I knew I would not sit around sad or depressed on my birthday this year. I was going to get dressed, put on makeup and rock out like only Mz. Sixx can. I decided I would get out of my comfort zone and I would start crossing a few things off my “50 before 50” list.



#My View- after the Falcons beat The Oakland Raiders 23-20



Yesterday afternoon, I attended my first live NFL game yesterday (Atlanta Falcons vs. Oakland Raiders). It was very exciting to sit in the executive suite (hosted by Verizon Wireless). The view was awesome- nothing like watching it on TV. I felt like I could reach right over and touch the players. I could see every move, every play, hear every cuss word (lol) and actually understood what was going on. I felt myself cheering and screaming like a Justin Beiber Fan (sweating out my freshly blow dried natural hair) cheering for the falcons to make a touchdown. For the first time I think this year, I had on my infamous 5 inch stiletto ankle boots, leather legging, and an Asian inspired top. Some of the executives kept touching my pants & rubbing my legs (Saying ummmm ” I like those” looking at me like I was a pulled pork sandwich). If I was conceited I would swear they were checking for me…lol..lol.. My co workers surprised me with a cake, they sung Happy Birthday, and we DRANK LOTS OF WINE ( lol..lol). During half time, the band played the wobble- and YOU KNOW YA GIRL GOT HER WOBBLE ON!!!!!! The cheerleaders did a skit and the players do a chat- and you RISE UP (#ayeeeee) #Go Falcons, it was like a party (or maybe I turned it into one …lol..lol..). Nonetheless, this chica had a ball. Food, wine, good company, and the home team won-made for an enjoyable afternoon.



Me-Rocking my Leather Leggings



It felt good to get out-breathe fresh air- and celebrate MY LIFE… MY WAY! The celebration hasn’t stop and it won’t stop (in my Diddy voice.. “Won’t stop..Can’t stop”). I made a vow to myself to live MY best life and KEEP THE CELEBRATION GOING!!!!!!
** please peep the #purpleEverything #LupusAwareness-EVERYDAY**



The infamous Bathroom Pic ( in the Executive Suite @ The Georgia Dome)



Until Next time fam,
Live.. Love.. Laugh..
The Lupie Chick TM

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Twitter @AuNaturaleDC & @LupieeChick
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Get past the excuses!

The Lupie Chick

** In my Sunshine Anderson Voice** “I’ve heard it all before-all the excuses why you (me) can’t work out.  I’ve decided to get up off the cough, bury the excuses and get moving!!!! My body is going down and it’s time for me to pick it up!!!!! I’m tackling my destructive habits, done with the pity party, and instead of investing in spanx (I’ve been known to wear 2 pair of spanx at one time-pretty much cutting off my circulation and the ability to wobble or drop it low lol..lol..) I will invest in work out gear and equipment.
I went for a brisk walk yesterday for the first time since being diagnosed with lupus (July 2011). I told ya’ll that every time I make up my mind to workout-mister ole evil ass creep in. On my way home-it started raining, more like storming.. ok.. I’ll do the Zumba on the wii,**no excuses** mid way home, migraine was coming on.. NOPE-whipped out my peppermint essential oil and was rubbing my temples like my life depended on it ** no excuses**-Guess what?? I got home-it had stopped raining, and my migraine was fading to black… ITS ON!!!!!!!
I put on my T-shirt, leggings, and sneakers and hit the pavement.
** Please note the Lupus T-shirt, Lupus Bracelet, and purle shadow-#LupusAwareness EVERYDAY**
 Showing support to Running For Lupus with the “L” Hand Sign
When I was through I was a sweaty mess.. But I was ecstatic that I completed DAY 1 workout and didn’t cave into any excuses!!!! Below is my stats from the workout-using the sports tracker app on Android

The Top 6 Exercise Excuses and How to Beat Them

Just like everyone else, people with lupus need to exercise regularly or engage in some kind of movement, and most people with lupus can take part in some form of activity.
 We all know that being physically active makes you healthier; you’ll sleep better, feel happier and more energetic. But when it comes time to actually get out there and start moving, many of us have a long list of excuses not to exercise — too little time, too little energy, or we simply don’t like to work out.

How can you get past the excuses and get moving.

Exercise Excuse No. 1: “I Don’t Have Time.”

During your TV shows, use resistance bands, or walk in place. Or use Tivo so you can skip the commercials and see a one-hour show later in just 40 minutes, That’s 20 minutes of activity right there. Better yet, turn off the TV and spend your newfound time working out.

Music-When we moved into our new home, we didn’t have cable for a week or so- we turned on the radio, I realized that most stations have an online presence so I could still hear my go-go and Biggie. I was moving and grooving all around the house.  
Your exercise doesn’t have to be a formal workout either. Try making small lifestyle changes that help you move more: take the stairs instead of the escalator, don’t drive when you can walk, and get a pedometer and try to increase the number of steps you take throughout the day.

People who exercise regularly make it a habit.  They haven’t bought any more time during the day than anyone else. What we’ve done is prioritize it. We find time for things we value.

Exercise Excuse No. 2: “I’m Too Tired.”

It may sound counter intuitive, but working out actually gives you more energy. Once you get moving, your fatigue will likely disappear.

You’re getting the endorphins [feel-good hormones in your body] to release, and you’re getting the circulation going — as opposed to coming home and crashing on the couch.

It may help to work out in the morning, before you get wiped out by a demanding workday.  If you’re not a morning person, don’t worry, just work out whenever you feel the best.


Exercise Excuse No. 3: “I Don’t Get a Break From the Kids.”

Take the kids with you. While they’re swinging, you can walk around the playground or the backyard, or jump rope. Walk the kids to school instead of driving them. During their soccer games or practices, walk briskly around the field.

Use your family time for active pursuit. Go biking with your kids or just walk around the neighborhood with your children. When the weather’s bad, try active video games (Zumba, & Michael Jackson Experience are my favorites), dancing, at home work out videos ( my buddy told me that Julian Michael’s videos are the #TRUTH).

Remember that your fitness is good for your kids as well as you. When mom or dad is more fit, has more energy, the whole family benefits.

Exercise Excuse No. 4: “Exercise Is Boring.”

You should want it and feel good about it before you do it. And it should feel good while you’re doing it.”

So how do you get there? First, find an activity you love. Think outside the box: Join a sports league (I’m thinking about joining the kickball league next season). Or, if you love music, line dancing ( can you say wobble!!!!).  There’s an exercise for everyone.

If it makes exercise more enjoyable for you, it’s OK to watch TV or read while you’re on the exercise bike or treadmill — just don’t forget to pedal or run.

Working out with a group also helps many people. Not everybody’s cut out to go on a six-mile run by themselves.To find a group, look at meetups ( meetup.com or simply recruit several friends.

Every once in a while, try something totally new. Mix it up so you don’t get bored.


Exercise Excuse No. 5: “I Just Don’t Like to Move.”

There are people who really enjoy not moving. They prefer to knit, read books, or watch TV.

If it’s sweating you don’t like, you can get a good workout without perspiring excessively.You can work out indoors, where it’s air conditioned. You can swim so you won’t notice any perspiration. Or, try a low-sweat activity like yoga.

If exercise hurts your joints, try starting by exercising in water. The stronger your muscles get, the more they can support your joints, and the less you’ll hurt. If you’re physical limitations is more serious, check with your doctor/coach who can help you figure out exercises that are still safe and easy to do.

If you don’t like to move because you feel too fat, start with an activity that’s less public, like using an exercise video at home. Walk with nonjudgmental friends in your neighborhood while wearing clothes that provide enough coverage that you feel comfortable.
Exercise Excuse No. 6: “I Always End up Quitting.”

Set small, attainable goals. Then you’re more likely to feel like a success, not a failure. If you exercise for five minutes a day for a week, you’ll feel good — and more likely to want to try 10 minutes a day the next week.

It also helps to keep a log and post it somewhere public (follow hash tag #DivaGettingFit on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook).
 Having an exercise buddy keeps you accountable as well. My buddy is my sista friend Gayna. She encourages me, provides LOADS of tips, and holds me accountable.  Thanks BUDDY!!!!!


It’s harder to start exercising than to stick with it once you’ve got your momentum going. Start a healthy habit today… you will feel better and will want to continue your healthy lifestyle everyday!
If lupus has you on the sidelines rather than in the middle of the action, this new low-impact exercise program, designed specifically for people with lupus, may be “just right” for you. Guided by a licensed A.C.E. instructor who also has lupus, this DVD offers a gentle fitness routine that you can practice in the comfort of your own home. The goal is not to become a super model but to get moving—and to improve your well-being in the process. DVD, 27 minutes.

Disclaimer: All exercise plans should be discussed with your physician or exercise specialist in order to maximize results and minimize possible harm.
au naturale, co-wash, curls, curly hair, definition, juice n berries, lotta body, lupie chick, miss sixx, moisturizer, naturally curly.com, naturally exquisite, oyin handmade, pineapple hair, regime, setting lotion

The almighty chase of the curl & definition

The Lupie Chick
Day 3-4 of a flat twist out


I’m always asked the question ” what do you use to get your hair curly?” ” How do you define your curls?”  The answer has remained the same for the last 6 months- I do flat twist out, using diluted lottabody setting lotion and my homemade whipped shea butter. I pineapple my hair at night, shake, and fluff in the am and ROCK OUT!

I have curly hair, however I’m no longer chasing curls and demanding that my hair is ” defined” 24/7. I do my twist out on Sunday and I don’t re twist until the following Sunday. I stretch a twist out for 5 days ( sometimes 6). The picture above is a 3rd or 4th day twist out. In the morning, I take down my hair ( from the pineapple), take my shower ( the steam help loosen the hair), after the shower ( i don’t not wet the hair- I just let the steam work), spritz with Oyin Handmade Juice N Berries ( or you could use water), fluff and go.. I’m now in love with my hair on day 3-5 of my twist out- I love the volume and loose curl. Day 1-2 the pattern is really tight and and not ” big” as I would like- not my fav look ( on myself).

Day 2 of a flat twist out 

MOISTURE is what defines and shapes our curls, not product. MOISTURE is what chases frizz away. Use products to enchace what you have, not create something that isn’t there. Curls come naturally- not in a jar ( or tube, or bottle).

{ posted on BlackGirlLongHair.com/} ” Don’t fight nature, embrace it. Haute hair, begins with healthy hair. So, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Trim every 3 months. Choose protective styles whenever possible. Avoid heat like the plague. Once you have mastered these principles, explore styling options that work with your natural curl pattern. If your hair is very kinky, roll with it…literally. Styles like finger twists and comb twists will produce awesome lasting texture with ease. These styles also tend to look better as they age. Gently separate the twist after a few days for greater volume and variety.”

Now that summer is creeping up on us and the the heat and humidity is in FULL EFFECT- Below are links to a few post to help you maintain healthy summer hair and keep the curls popping by providing tips on how to moisturize & maintain length.

Co-Washing Natural Hair

Moisturizing & Sealing Natural Hair

My ( daily/weekly/monthly) Regime

Disclaimer: These images may not be reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated without the written permission of Mz. Sixx. Use of any image as the basis for another photographic concept or illustration (digital, artist rendering or alike) is a violation of the United States and International Copyright laws. All images are copyrighted © 2012 – Au’Naturale by Mz. Sixx

Altonia Dugar, au naturale, awareness, lupie chick, lupus, lupus foundation, Lupus Walk, miss naturale, miss sixx, natural hair, natural hair care, women, world lupus day

31 Days of Lupus Awareness Facts

The Lupie Chick


Lupus Awareness Month is observed during May to increase public understanding of this unpredictable and potentially life-threatening disease that affects an estimated 1.5 million Americans. Here’s today’s important fact about lupus.

May 1: Lupus is an unpredictable and complex autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and can damage any organ in the body with life-threatening consequences.

May 2: Ninety percent of the people who develop lupus are female. Males also can develop lupus and their disease can be more severe in some organs.

May 3: Lupus develops most often between ages 15 and 44. However, between 10 and 20 percent of cases develop during childhood and these cases can evolve more rapidly into serious health complications.

May 4: In lupus, something goes wrong with the immune system, which is the part of the body that fights off viruses, bacteria, and germs. The result is the production of autoantibodies that causes inflammation.

May 5: Some people have genes that allow them to develop lupus. Factors that may trigger lupus in these people include infections, ultraviolet light, extreme stress, certain prescription drugs, and certain hormones.

May 6: Many symptoms of lupus mimic those of other illnesses, and symptoms can come and go over time, which makes diagnosis more difficult. Consequently, lupus can take three to five years or more to diagnose.

May 7: There is no single laboratory test that can determine whether a person has lupus. Diagnosing lupus involves analyzing the results of several lab tests, a review of the person’s entire medical history, and the history of close family members.

May 8: Lupus is treated by a rheumatologist, a physician who specializes in conditions affecting the joints and muscles. Some people with lupus may need additional care from specialists, like a dermatologist for skin problems, a nephrologist for kidney disease, or a cardiologist for heart complications.

May 9: More than 90 percent of people with lupus will experience joint and/or muscle pain that can be disabling. Medication and mind-body therapies can be used to help control the pain associated with lupus.

May 10: Lupus can be an expensive disease. The average annual cost to provide healthcare for a person with lupus is $12,643, and rises to nearly $21,000 when lost work productivity is included.

May 11: African Americans, Hispanics/Latinas, Asians and Pacific Islanders, and Native Americans are diagnosed with lupus two or three times more frequently than Caucasians; however, lupus affects people of all races and ethnicities.

May 12: Successful treatment of lupus often requires a combination of medications. A new treatment for lupus was approved recently, and nearly two-dozen clinical studies are underway to develop a full arsenal of treatments.

May 13: As many as 80 percent of people with lupus experience fatigue. For some, fatigue can be debilitating, even to the point of forcing them to stop working.

May 14: People with lupus are usually encouraged to engage in appropriate daily exercise in order to maintain muscle and bone strength. Care should be taken, however, to balance exercise with rest.

May 15: Systemic lupus is the most common type of lupus. Systemic lupus can affect any organ system of the body, including the heart, kidneys, lungs, blood, joints, and skin.

May 16: Discoid lupus (the most common form of skin lupus) accounts for approximately 10 percent of all cases of lupus and occurs in 20 percent of those with systemic lupus.

May 17: Drug-induced lupus is a lupus-like disease caused by taking specific prescription drugs. The symptoms usually disappear after these medications are stopped.

May 18: Women with lupus are at increased risk for loss of bone mass (osteoporosis) and are nearly five times more likely to experience a fracture.

May 19: Blood disorders such as anemia (a low number of circulating red blood cells) are common in lupus, affecting about half of all people with active disease.

May 20: People with lupus should eat a nutritious, well-balanced, and varied diet that contains plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and moderate amounts of fish and lean meats. Lifestyle adjustments should always include quitting smoking, as tobacco products can cause flares of lupus symptoms.

May 21: More than 80 percent of people with systemic lupus will experience some type of nervous system complication, ranging from mild confusion or memory loss to strokes, seizures, and vision problems.

May 22: The malar, or “butterfly” rash on the face is present in about one-third of those with systemic lupus. This flat, reddish rash across the bridge of the nose and cheeks, is often the only visible symptom of this form of lupus.

May 23: As many as 40 percent of all people with lupus, and as many as two-thirds of all children with lupus, will develop kidney complications that require treatment.

May 24: Only 10 percent of people with lupus will have a close relative who has lupus or may develop lupus, and only five percent of children born to a mother with lupus will develop the disease.

May 25: About 40 percent of people who were originally diagnosed with cutaneous lupus, which affects only the skin, will go on to develop systemic lupus that can affect any organ in the body.

May 26: Neonatal lupus is a rare condition that affects infants of women who have lupus. With proper testing, physicians can identify most at-risk mothers, and the infant can be successfully treated before or at birth.

May 27: Lupus is not contagious and cannot be “given” to another person. Lupus is not like or related to HIV/AIDS or any other infectious disease.

May 28: With current methods of therapy, 80 to 90 percent of people with non-organ threatening lupus can look forward to a normal lifespan.

May 29: Advancing technology and better understanding of the disease have improved pregnancy outcomes. Today, 80 percent of women with inactive lupus can have successful pregnancies.

May 30: Most people with lupus are able to continue to work. However, some people may require modifications to their work environment and schedules, such as flexible work hours, job-sharing, and telecommuting.

May 31: Today people with lupus are leading healthier lives and living longer than at any time in history, thanks to researchers who continue to discover more about the underlying science of the immune system.



Click Here to Learn more about Lupus

Click Here to donate to team Lupie Chicks in the 2012 Walk for Lupus- Baltimore MD – September 29, 2012

Click Here to Join Team Lupie Chicks in the 2012 Walk for Lupus- Baltimore MD – September 29, 2012