A Star’s Hidden Struggle
Under the dazzling stage lights, Grammy-winning artist Muni Long delivers powerful performances that captivate audiences worldwide. Yet, behind the scenes, she battles a relentless and often invisible adversary: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus. Diagnosed in 2014, Muni has faced numerous challenges, balancing her burgeoning career with the unpredictable nature of this chronic autoimmune disease.
In a candid interview, with People Magazine, Muni shared the subtle yet alarming signs of an impending lupus flare-up: “My fingertips will start turning blue. My skin will get really pale… I’ll start looking super white. Which is hard to imagine because I’m brown-skinned.”
Understanding Lupus
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage across various body systems. This can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and lungs. The exact cause remains unknown, but it’s believed to result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Symptoms often mimic other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Common manifestations include extreme fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and sensitivity to sunlight. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may come and go, adding to the complexity of managing the disease.
The Impact on Daily Life
For Muni Long, lupus has imposed significant adjustments to her daily routine and professional commitments. The unpredictability of flare-ups has, at times, forced her to cancel performances, including a notable college football playoff show in January 2025. “I recently had to cancel… because I had a flare-up due to some personal things,” she revealed.
Managing lupus requires meticulous attention to one’s environment and stress levels. During her time as an opener for Chris Brown’s tour, Muni implemented specific routines to mitigate symptoms: ensuring the venue temperature was controlled to prevent cold-induced flare-ups and prioritizing rest immediately after performances. “Please turn the air off when I come in the building… if I get too cold, I start coughing and I won’t be able to sing,” she explained.
Navigating the Healthcare System
Beyond the physical challenges, Muni has faced systemic obstacles within the healthcare system, particularly as a Black woman. She expressed frustration over not being taken seriously by medical professionals: “As a Black woman, when I go to … … They don’t believe you.”
This sentiment reflects a broader issue, as studies have shown that Black women are disproportionately affected by lupus and often experience delays in diagnosis and treatment. According to the Lupus Foundation … lupus affects women nine times more often than men, and it is two to three times more common among women of color.
Advancements in Lupus Research
While there is currently no cure for lupus, ongoing research offers hope for improved treatments. Recent studies have explored innovative therapies, such as CAR T-cell therapy, which involves modifying a patient’s immune cells to reduce autoimmune responses. Early trials have shown promise, with some patients achieving remission without the need for continuous medication.
Additionally, pharmaceutical advancements have led to the development of new medications aimed at controlling lupus symptoms more effectively, providing patients with better quality of life.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Lupus
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms suggestive of lupus, early consultation with a healthcare professional is crucial. Here are steps to consider:
- Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of any signs, such as joint pain, skin changes, fatigue, or other unusual health issues.
- Seek Medical Evaluation: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss your concerns and undergo necessary evaluations.
- Advocate for Your Health: Be persistent in seeking answers. If your symptoms are dismissed, consider obtaining a second opinion.
- Manage Stress: Since stress can trigger lupus flare-ups, incorporating stress-reducing practices like meditation, gentle exercise, or hobbies can be beneficial.
- Connect with Support Networks: Engage with organizations such as the Lupus Foundation of America for resources, support groups, and up-to-date information.
Embracing Resilience
Muni Long’s journey with lupus exemplifies resilience in the face of chronic illness. Despite the challenges, she continues to pursue her passion for music, adapting her lifestyle to manage her health effectively. Her openness sheds light on the realities of living with lupus, offering encouragement to others navigating similar paths.
Understanding lupus and its multifaceted impact fosters empathy and underscores the importance of support for those affected. Through awareness and advocacy, we can contribute to a more informed and compassionate community for individuals living with chronic illnesses.
Resources for Further Information:
- Lupus Foundation of America: www.lupus.org
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Lupus Data and Statistics: www.cdc.gov/lupus
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal … – Lupus Overview: www.niams.nih.gov
