LFAGW celebrates 35th anniversary

The Lupus Foundation of America Greater Washington Chapter (LFAGW) will celebrate 35 years of success providing free day-to-day education, advice and resources for the 75,000+ people with lupus and their families in the greater D.C. area.

LFAGW's 35th Anniversary Luncheon will be held on Sat., December 5 from 12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. at B. Smith's, 50 Massachusetts Ave., N.E., Washington (map). Dress: Business attire. Limited tickets are available at $100 each. Table sponsor opportunities are $1,500 including 10 seats, table and promotional signage. For table sponsorships and additional corporate opportunities, email Kassandra Kearse or call 202-349-1167. To help fund LFAGW's new Patient Navigator Program, accompanying silent and online auctions will feature outstanding items including a two-week San Miguel deAllende vacation, hand-painted silk scarves, a home wine-tasting party, antique Christmas ornaments and more.

"Since 1974, our grassroots efforts have created a lifeline for many lupus patients in our area, and our members continue to grow," said Penny Fletcher, LFAGW president and CEO. "We look forward to ongoing success with our inspirational patients, partners and friends whose steady support enables us to carry out our mission," she said.

Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease with no known cure that can damage any part of the body including the skin, joints, heart, lungs, blood, kidneys and the brain.

LFAGW's pioneer Patient Navigator Program will offer patients a greater ability to navigate the health care system, one-on-one focused help and education. Although there is still no cure for lupus, there are ways to enhance health care access, delivery and provide a safety net for lupus patients.

LFAGW's ongoing, free services serve the Washington, Baltimore, extended Virginia and West Virginia areas, including: support for newly diagnosed patients, free support groups/counseling, ongoing education and seminars, "Living with Lupus" workshops, an annual symposium, fundraising walks, disability workshops, a regular newsletter and more.