Lupus Melbourne — Statement of purpose
Lupus Melbourne is a collaborative not-for-profit association of people with Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Cutaneous Lupus and Drug Induced Lupus) and related autoimmune or chronic illnesses (e.g., Sjogrens, MS, Raynauds) and their families and friends.At Lupus Melbourne:
1) We believe that while we live with lupus and/or related autoimmune or chronic illnesses, we are contributing members of the community who are not defined by lupus or the status of “patient” or “sufferer”.2) We will actively support one another to live positive, healthy, fruitful and interesting lives.
3) We will work in partnership with others, e.g. family, friends, colleagues, health and wellness professionals and community groups
a) To reach out to the people in the community with Lupus and/or related autoimmune or chronic illnesses, listen to their stories and invite them and their families and friends to join with us as we learn together about living well with chronic illness.
b) To build teams of people with lupus and related autoimmune or chronic illnesses who are committed to actively supporting one another to live positive, healthy, fruitful and interesting lives.
c) To support, educate and/or advocate for people with Lupus, their families, carers, support networks and employers.
d) To increase the understanding of Lupus in the Northern, Western and Central Suburbs of Melbourne.
e) To share information and establish cooperative connections with health and wellness professionals, community support networks, government agencies and peak bodies.
f) To maintain local, national and international connections within the wider Lupus Community
March 2009