Anareta Matainadroga’s journey with lupus reflects the struggles and resilience faced by many living with chronic illnesses. For over a decade, the 27-year-old from Nadroga experienced life constrained by medication, and her decision to go off them in 2019 resulted in a harsh two-year battle filled with intense withdrawal symptoms and complications.
“I was fed up with living on medication,” Matainadroga reveals, noting that her attempts to quit led to severe body aches, extreme fatigue, and cognitive “brain fog.” Despite these challenges, she was determined to live without her prescribed medications, believing she could manage her condition independently. Unfortunately, her body had other plans; worsening symptoms prompted her to return to the hospital, where she learned the gravity of her situation.
Having been diagnosed with lupus in 2010, Matainadroga has endured years of pain and uncertainty. She reflects on her past, mentioning how symptoms were often dismissed, misunderstanding the severity of her condition. “Living with lupus means I often appear healthy on the outside, but inside, it’s a different story,” she shares, expressing frustration over the unpredictability of her illness.
Lupus, often referred to as an “invisible illness,” presents myriad challenges for those affected, with symptoms ranging from fatigue and joint pain to skin infections. As Matainadroga emphasizes, the inability to anticipate flare-ups can be mentally taxing, as she fights to keep pace with a fast-moving world while managing her health.
Amid her struggles, she credits her support system for grounding her during difficult times. “I’m very grateful for my family and friends. They’ve seen me at my lowest and continue to offer unconditional support,” she expresses.
Echoing the sentiments of other lupus advocates, Matainadroga calls on the government to prioritize awareness initiatives and ongoing education about lupus. “It’s important for workplaces to understand what individuals living with chronic conditions endure,” she urges, advocating for compassion and understanding from employers.
Dr. Abhitesh Raj, a nephrology consultant, also supports these calls for greater awareness and care for lupus patients. He highlights the significant emotional toll the disease has on individuals and the importance of community support, a sentiment echoed in prior articles stressing the need for improved healthcare and emotional support for those battling chronic illnesses like lupus.
Lupus affects many across Fiji, with the government recognizing the need to enhance healthcare services for those impacted. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s commitments to improving access and treatment options for lupus patients, coupled with community efforts, signal a hopeful path forward for those living with this challenging condition.
Matainadroga’s story, combined with increasing advocacy for lupus awareness, underlines not only the challenges of living with a chronic illness but also the strength and resilience required to navigate them. Through educative efforts and a supportive community, there remains hope for a brighter future for individuals living with lupus.
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