Like many, I was shocked to find out about the passing of Domineque Banks, a natural hair avocate, vlogger and blogger.  Domineque was know to the word but her rightful handle, Longhairdontcare2011.  She was so liked and loved by a community of natural hair media, natural hair followers and many others.  Not only an advocate for natural hair, Domineque was a advocate for lupus awareness, a disease that she lived with and the attributed to her death.  As we mourn the loss of the precious 27 year old life, it is important that we continue to raise awareness about lupus.

A friend of Domineque’s family  released this statement in regards to her passing; “It is with a most heavy heart that I bring you the news of my dear friend’s passing. Domineque passed away on April 9th, 2014 after complications brought on by Lupus. Though she was a long-time sufferer of this disease, her condition turned for the worst in recent months with her kidneys functioning at a terribly low rate. Tragically, Domineque fell unconscious the night of April 7th but thankfully her amazing partner was there by her side to perform CPR and call 911. Domineque was placed on life support and was not able to breathe on her own. At 12:30pm, on April 9th, after having suffered a heart attack, she passed away. She was 27 years old.This is a truly difficult time for her spouse, family, and friends– it is beyond surreal and heartbreaking to write what has transpired. I have set up this fundraiser to help with both the funeral and cremation costs. Also, we are trying to fly out her sister and young nephew who don’t have the funds to purchase flights. We will make sure they see Domineque one last time.We sincerely thank you for your help, it is humbly appreciated.”  

Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that occurs when your body’s immune system attacks your own tissues and organs. Inflammation caused by lupus can affect many different body systems — including your joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart and lungs. Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because its signs and symptoms often mimic those of other ailments. The most distinctive sign of lupus — a facial rash that resembles the wings of a butterfly unfolding across both cheeks — occurs in many but not all cases of lupus. Some people are born with a tendency toward developing lupus, which may be triggered by infections, certain drugs or even sunlight. While there’s no cure for lupus, treatments can help control symptoms.

We are just a few weeks away from the month of May which is lupus awareness month.  I would like to see us paint social media purple in honor of this and so many beautiful spirits that lost their battle to lupus.