About Me

My Story

Hi, I’m Velvet.

I live with Lupus, Sjögren’s, and Rheumatoid Arthritis, and like so many of you, I know what it’s like to navigate the ups and downs of chronic illness while still trying to show up for life. For over 20 years, I worked as a nurse—often pushing through flares, exhaustion, and pain because I was afraid of being seen as weak. Looking back, I realize I should have given myself the same care and compassion I gave my patients. That lesson, though hard, is part of what I carry with me today.

Over the years, I’ve shared parts of my story with communities like Lupus Chick and The Mighty. Writing has become a way for me to process, connect, and hopefully remind others that they aren’t alone in this journey. This blog is where I open the door a little wider.

Here, I’ll be sharing the real side of life with chronic illness—the good days, the messy days, and everything in between. My hope is that you’ll find comfort, encouragement, and maybe even a bit of inspiration in these pages. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, deep in the trenches, or supporting someone you love, I want this to be a place where you feel seen and understood.

I don’t have all the answers (none of us do), but I do have years of lived experience and the perspective of both a patient and a healthcare professional. I’ve learned that strength doesn’t always mean “pushing through.” Sometimes, it means giving yourself permission to rest, to say no, or to ask for help.

Thank you for being here. It means so much to me to share this space with you.

With love,
Velvet