Lupie Braxton

The other day my co-worker mentioned that she was watching Braxton Family Values, and Toni Braxton had announced to her family and the world that she has lupus.  As I was getting ready for work yesterday, I saw that the episode was on, so I got a chance to see it.

Toni had been diagnosed with lupus for a few years, but had been urged to keep it a secret because it would have a negative effect on her career.  She thought no one would want to hire her if they knew about her condition.  In fact, according to her interview with Black Enterprise, lupus is what caused her financial troubles.  She was forced to cancel her shows and break contracts because her lupus was flaring up and affecting her heart.  The doctors told her she wouldn't be able to handle the hour and a half performances.

She even kept her secret from some of her family, and they never understood why she was so lazy (in their eyes) and tired all the time.  If you watch her show, you'll notice her resting and sleeping a lot -- now we know why!

In November, she was being honored by Lupus LA and decided to reveal to the world that she has lupus.  She announced "This is what lupus looks like!"  Even with the thinning hair and steroid-induced weight gain, she looks great!  While she says it was a tough decision to come out about this, she feels it was such a relief.

Thank you, Toni, for having the courage to share your story with us and to helping to give lupus a voice!

- a little lupie -