This event aims to bring families, patients, and the community together to learn about the symptoms and how to help each other. The walk takes place on 9 May from 06:00 to 10:00 during Lupus Awareness Month, just one day before the official Lupus Awareness Day.

Strength in Purple co-founder Mamello Mallela started the group after she found very little information or help following her diagnosis. She describes lupus as a sickness where the body’s own defence system attacks its healthy parts, and it often appears to be other diseases. Therefore, many people wait a long time to get appropriate medical help from doctors.

 “I noticed after the diagnosis that there is really no awareness or possible awareness, so I decided that I am going to organise a lupus awareness fun walk,” said Mallela.

The diagnosis followed a sudden, overnight illness in February 2024. Transitioning from perfect health to a severely swollen body, Mallela endured three months of hospital visits and exhaustive testing.

Mamello Mallela was severely swollen due to lupus. Photo supplied

After 55 nights in clinical care and consulting various specialists, doctors finally identified the condition and began treatment. “I literally had to go do research and sit down with my family, explaining to them what lupus is,” said Mallela.

Since she started talking about her journey on social media, many have reached out to share their own stories. This led her to turn Strength in Purple into a real organisation to help more people.

Strength in Purple co-founder Mamello Mallela. Photo supplied 

Mallela wants to have two big events every year and start a support group on WhatsApp. She also plans to host a brunch for people who are too sick to join the walk. Beyond the upcoming walk, the organisation seeks support to expand its reach and community impact. To assist with event logistics and awareness efforts, contributions such as water, coffee, and sunscreen are requested.

In addition to donations, digital engagement remains a priority to help grow the support network. Those interested in assisting or joining the mission can find further details on Malella’s social media page.

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OFM News/Refilwe Bekane mc