Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharnae Smith.
Hi Sharnae, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
After I was diagnosed with lupus in 2011, I became involved in various organizations that brought lupus awareness to the community, I became a lupus advocate because although there are millions of people that fight this disease.
There is a lack of support and resources for those of us that fight lupus every day. I wanted to create an organization here in Memphis that can be a beacon of light to those that are newly diagnosed or even those that have been diagnosed as long as I have.
I wanted to create a space that provides an opportunity for people to share personal experiences and feelings, coping strategies, or firsthand information about diseases or treatments. I have been the CEO of the Memphis Lupus Support Group for the past 6 years and I find it a part of my life’s purpose to be able to provide those that have lupus a bridge between medical and emotional needs.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a very long and rough road because this disease is so unpredictable and it has really taken a toll on my body.
However, since lupus is not visible, people believe that I am perfectly fine when most days I am struggling just to live a simple everyday life.
It’s also been hard to get support from the city because we are such a small organization and there are many other organizations that work with chronically ill patients with diseases that are much more public (breast cancer, Alzheimer’s, etc.).
So people often overlook supporting organizations such as mine because lupus is not well known to many people.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m the President/CEO of the Neshoba Community Resource Center – Memphis Lupus Support Group Serves as the face of the support group. I provide leadership and internal direction to ensure effective group management.
Defines the organization’s long-term goals and strategic focus in partnership with the Board of Directors, and implements strategic plans and annual operating plans, works in partnership with the Board to set and accomplish the organization’s mission and vision. I’m known for being a healthcare and disability advocate.
I travel to Congress and urge senators to provide more funding for lupus research and to help find a cure.
I’m most proud of being consistent in my fight with lupus and helping others in their fight. When I was first diagnosed, I was scared and didn’t know much about the disease and I want to make sure that no one else ever feels the way I felt when I was first diagnosed.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I like most about Memphis is the culture surrounding art, music, and of course the food. What I like the least is the lack of employment opportunities for young professionals and the crime.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/memphislupus
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/memphislupussupport
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/memphislupus
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiZmeHWBhKdTv3QIZQNcjTw
