Hi everyone,

My name is Carolyn, and on 29th October 2025, I’ll be celebrating my 40th birthday. To mark this milestone, I want to raise funds for a cause very close to my heart — Lupus UK.

Just over 25 years ago, on 18th June 2000, I sadly lost my mum, Helen, to complications caused by Lupus.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. This leads to inflammation and damage that can affect the organs and joints. It’s an uncommon, complex, and often misunderstood illness, which means that even healthcare professionals sometimes struggle to recognise the early signs — leading to delays in referral and diagnosis.

Shockingly, the average time from the onset of Lupus symptoms to diagnosis is around six years. During that time, active disease can cause lasting damage to the kidneys, skin, heart, lungs, and brain.

My mum suffered with Lupus for many years and endured multiple symptoms before passing away at just 46 years old.

In the years since her death, there have been some important advances in managing the disease — but continued research and awareness are vital to improve understanding and treatment.

As I turn 40, I want to give back in appreciation for the incredible work Lupus UK does to support those living with this unforgiving disease.

Please help me raise funds in honour of my mum, Helen — a brave, kind, strong, and beautiful woman who would be proud to know her story is helping others facing the same challenges she did.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. If you’re able to donate, please know that every contribution, big or small, truly makes a difference.

Thank you,

Carolyn