Stephanie Houseman

Meet Stephanie Housman from Grand Rapids, MI. Stephanie has been battling lupus for 16 years.

Stephanie’s Story:

I was diagnosed with lupus at 16 years old when I was in high school. I started to sleep an unusual amount while dealing with chronic headaches lasting weeks and my muscles started deteriorating. I had the butterfly rash and I knew something was wrong. I was in a full blown flare and didn’t even know it until I got the diagnosis. I feel lucky because I got a quick diagnosis due to all of my symptoms being present at once.

After I fully accepted my diagnosis and started talking about lupus and sharing my story, I felt so much peace and have made so many connections in the lupus community. I am so grateful.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who is newly diagnosed?: It gets better, it’s okay to mourn your old healthy self.

What is one misconception you wish you could change about lupus?: It’s not a terminal diagnosis.

What brings you joy?: My husband, friends, family, and career in real estate.