Meet Semi V | Lupus Advocate & Children’s Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Semi V and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Semi, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started the Light For Lupus LLC because I wanted to tackle the emotional, personal and social realities of living with lupus by speaking to community groups and sharing my story with those who are affected by the disease, in hope to bringing light to the illness. Connecting with families with younger children diagnosed with lupus has been one of my centered focuses. Being able to provide them with materials to help them navigate through this journey is the main goal.
Originally, I didn’t know what direction I wanted to go in, all I knew is that I wanted to spread awareness and educate others. I wanted people to know that lupus is a complex disease that can cause many complications but with the right resources and mindset you can live life like any other person. I have my bad days when I’m lethargic and achy but I also have really good days too. Over time I had to learn to listen to my body, I found my balance and I began to use my voice. When I’m speaking on platforms and sharing how I’m actively living life I strive to give others hope. I wanted other lupus warriors to understand that their “normal” may not be like everyone else but everyone has some sort of obstacle that they have to tackle. I figured if I started with educating children at an early age, they would have a jumpstart when it comes to figuring out what works for them.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Being diagnosed with lupus in 2013 was probably one of the most difficult things I had ever experienced. Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the body and for me it went after my heart and lungs. I had to undergo many procedures which left me on life support. I knew once I got back to where I needed to be physically I’d never go down without a fight again.

Throughout the years it was baffling to me when i realized not many people knew what lupus was nor the damage it could cause. I wanted to change that. I began speaking at community events and on podcasts advocating and sharing my story but I felt like that just wasn’t enough.

So I found a passion within my business. I wanted to do more than share my story I wanted to help others understand theirs. So I channeled my personal journey into creating children’s books that addresses the complexities of living with lupus. Through my writing, I aim to provide understanding, empathy, and support for young readers and their families.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would start by taking them to piedmont park. It’s so many things to do in that area but I love setting up a good picnic! You can’t go wrong with bringing out the uno cards, a canvas or two with paint, and some music. If you’re lucky you’ll catch a festival.
The battery is filled with lots of interactive things to do along with ponce city market.
IPIC is also a really dope movie theater that’s worth visiting.
If they’re interested in brunch Nouveau vibes are always fun on Sundays .

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shout out to my family. They’ve been my biggest supporters throughout this journey. Whether it’s assisting me with appointments, or showing up for events they have never left my side. They didn’t allow me to settle. They encouraged me to figure this journey out and go after everything I want and I’m forever grateful for that. I also want to send a shout out to any lupus warriors battling this cruel disease. If you’re newly diagnosed, I understand it can be confusing and frustrating in the beginning but I promise it’s worth the trial and error. Keep fighting it may not be easy but what great thing is ?

Instagram: Lulielu

Other: @lightforlupus instagram