Darline was an active, healthy mom to three young children. One day, when bending down to pick up her toddler she felt winded; it took her by surprise and scared her. Darline went to her doctor and after a long journey of many appointments, tests and follow-ups she was diagnosed with lupus. At the time of her diagnosis in 1988, doctors didn’t know much about lupus and gave her 3-5 years to live – but Darline wasn’t going to let that become reality.
Almost immediately, Darline decided to take control of her health, changed her diet and sought out the best doctors. She approached her health holistically – focusing on her physical, mental and spiritual well being. Her daughters describe her as a fighter, and a person that embodied perseverance. She never let lupus define her.
Over the years Darline’s lupus continually attacked her lungs, with countless respiratory viruses and issues. Finally, she was put on oxygen to support her lungs – but that never stopped Darline and her positive outlook.
Darline was always educating others about lupus. She had a passion for art and an incredible ability to create amazing scrapbooks – she loved making, keeping and sharing memories. Her daughters describe her as an incredible mom, grandmother, friend – and a mother figure to anybody who needed her. Darline also loved giving back, whether it was volunteering at the Annual Easter Roll at the White House or in her local community. She always wanted to turn the blessings she had into blessings for others.
To say Darline left a profound impact on anyone that knew her would be an understatement. When she passed away in October of 2022 her daughters and best friend wanted to make sure that her life and legacy continued to make an impact, so they created a Lupus Foundation of America tribute page in her honor. As an advocate for lupus throughout her life, they knew it was the best way to keep her efforts going to help the future of lupus research, education and ultimately a cure.
Darline’s daughters said she was the ultimate storyteller, and the story of her life, strength and positive outlook will continue to inspire those that knew her and those that learn about her for many, many years to come.
If you have lost a loved one, you can create a tribute page in their honor. They are a way for you to share their story, while also giving others the opportunity to honor their memory with a donation.
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