Student Nurse with SLE

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Hey everyone. I'm new here. I'm starting a nursing program in September. I have been in school for 4 years and am only considered a sophomore. :eek: I am a very dedicated student, but have had to drop many classes over the years due to health issues. I have finally been diagnosed with systemic lupus after being sick for 6 years. I still haven't found the right treatment for me (I flare ALOT and have uncontrolled seizures and multiple TIAs) I have had some relief but not much. And my meds cause some difficult side effects. But I have always been strong willed and always push through no matter how much life kicks me in the face. I just pray to God that I can make it through nursing school.

Should I tell my professors? I've heard horror stories of teachers trying to "weed out the weak ones" so I don't want to give the impression that I can't do it. But what happens when my rash pops up or when I can't find the right words during a presentation or something. ( I have horrendous brain fog). I don't know what I'm looking for here. Just some encouragement maybe. Are there any nurses or student who've made it though while dealing with chronic illness?

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Personally, I would only disclose that type of information to a professor if I thought there were specific accommodations that could realistically be made for it. Whatever you decide, I wish the best for you and your health.

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While I don't have SLE I do have fibromyalgia which they believe is caused by an overreaction and sensitivity of nerves which causes alot of pain. Most morning I fell as though a truck has run over me, but I have been able to push through alot and I have found that it is better just to not say anything if I can help it. I mentioned it to some of my friends in a study group and they were questioning whether I could make it through nursing. If you are asked bu your professors about the rash during a flare be honest but try and play it off as no big deal. Many instructors durring the first year or so do try and find the weak links so you kind of have to show them that your not. Just hang in their what does not kill you makes you stronger! :hug:

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

:hug:.....I'm glad you finally got a diagnosis.

I will tell you that the medical profession isn't always kind to those with illnesses. As a fellow sufferer with an auto-immune disorder I will tell you that even thought I have 34 years experience....they couldn't wait to dump me once they found out. Keep what ever you can quiet unless you need special accomodation.

Good Luck!

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I usually don't say anything unless I have issues or need accommodations but I have sjogren's syndrome and reynauds. Most of my professors don't know it and should I find my hands go back to being they way they were before it was better controlled I have the option of going to the office of disability resources on our campus. They handle things differently in that your professor need never know what your diagnosis or problem is but only the accommodations that they are required to give you whether it is extra test taking time or allowing certain devices. Each semester you get a letter from ODS if you renew the accommodations or have a permanent plan in place that you present to the professors and they do whatever was listed on the paper.

My advice is keep it to yourself unless it is interfering and at that point find out what resources are available for disabilities on your campus.

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