PAULINE Bilsborough may look like a normal, healthy, middle-aged woman, but appearances can be deceptive.

For the last 20 years, Pauline has suffered from a little-known debilitating disease called lupus which has destroyed her immune system and almost rendered her disabled.

The 51-year-old from Peel Mount Close, Knuzden, had to give up her care assistant job seven years ago and spends hours resting in bed if she does too much housework.

But in the face of such adversity, the brave mother-of-two has striven to help other sufferers in Blackburn and Hyndburn by setting up a special support group.

And this month is a milestone for the group as it celebrates its first year of existence.

Pauline said: "It started as a way for sufferers to meet up and talk to each other and just took off from there.

"We have 20 members now and the group offers sufferers a life-line helping them to help themselves. Just talking about their problems is therapeutic."

The disease is similar to multiple sclerosis but mainly affects women aged 15 to 50. One in 500 women suffer from lupus and symptoms include fatigue, hair loss, migraines, chest pain, kidney infections, skin rashes, anaemia, miscarriage, aching joints and muscles.

Every month the group meets at Beardwood Hospital in Blackburn and guest speakers regularly talk about subjects like welfare rights, aromatherapy and diets.

But the main problem lupus sufferers face is lack of recognition.

Pauline added: "In my experience doctors and the general public tend not to know about lupus. We're trying to get through to people that we suffer just as much as those with MS and need medical recognition urgently to help save lives."

The next support group meeting is at 1.30pm at Beardwood Hospital, Blackburn, on February 12.

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