Six Men Talk About Their Lives with Lupus

To gain some insight into coping strategies specifically for men, we posed questions to six men about their lives with lupus. We think you will find their responses helpful and inspiring.

Steven Helms, of Marshville, NC, was diagnosed with lupus in 2008. After 19 years of service to his company, Steven’s doctor told him he could no longer work because of his constant fatigue.

Vince Alario, of Pittsburgh, was diagnosed with lupus at age 20. He later developed lupus nephritis and needs dialysis three days a week.

Harvey Stuart Cahoon, of Stony Point, NY, was diagnosed in 1995 with lupus involving his heart and lungs. He had to retire from his job as a police officer and is now receiving Social Security disability benefits.

David Small, of Tampa, FL, was diagnosed with lupus in 2003. David worked for AT&T for almost 20 years, but went on disability leave for six months following an overwhelming bout of blood clots. When he returned, he was told that, due to corporate downsizing, he was being let go.

Charles Zinn, of Perrysburg, OH, was diagnosed with lupus in June 2000. Charles worked in quality control at a manufacturing company until symptoms of lupus made working difficult. After a doctor prescribed “light duty” due to the illness, the company laid him off. Continued difficulties with his kidneys and persistent pain have kept Charles from returning to work.

Keith Samuel, of Irvington, NJ, a former professional soccer player, was diagnosed with lupus in October 2009. Although fatigue, chest pain, and persistent fevers made it difficult to continue his job as a bus driver, it wasn’t until he developed skin and vascular complications that he was admitted to a hospital and finally diagnosed with lupus.