Because it’s Autoimmune Awareness Month
Before March comes to a close, I want to take a moment to honor National Autoimmune Awareness Month by sharing a piece of my story:
Demi’s Journey: Coming Out with Ulcerative Colitis as a Filipino Woman – Own Your Crohn’s
It’s been 10 years since I was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). I’m still on the same medication, Mesalamine —just at a higher dose now (from 4 capsules to 12). Thankfully, I’ve managed to avoid surgery so far. And while my body has aged, my spirit has only grown stronger.
Today, there are over 100 recognized autoimmune diseases, and science still hasn’t found a cure. That’s why visibility matters. When public figures like Kris Aquino, who is bravely managing six autoimmune conditions - Autoimmune Thyroiditis, Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria, EGPA (a rare, life-threatening form of Vasculitis), Systemic Sclerosis, Lupus, and Rheumatoid Arthritis, or Sunshine Cruz, recently diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, share their journeys, they help bring much-needed attention to something many of us carry in silence.
You don’t have to shout. But you do have to speak because your story can open doors—to healing, understanding, and community.
To anyone living with an invisible illness:
Please don’t be afraid to take up space. Don’t be afraid to be heard.
Your voice might be exactly what someone else needs to hear today.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past decade, it’s this:
There’s no single formula for managing an autoimmune disease. Every journey is personal. But one thing I know for sure—is that your body responds positively when you choose to care for it.
Start small:
Get more restful sleep
Set boundaries without guilt
Choose foods that nourish and heal
Let go of habits that no longer serve you
These small shifts matter. They may not bring a cure—but they do create space for healing. And if you’re supporting someone living with an autoimmune condition, your compassion makes a difference, too.
There is always something you can do today to feel a little better tomorrow. You deserve that kind of love—from others, but especially from yourself.
For more information on autoimmune diseases, visit Autoimmune Disease Awareness, Advocacy, Education & Research - Autoimmune Association