LupusLine® Program

Contact

What to expect when you call LupusLine®

LupusLine® is ideal for people who want a one-on one relationship via the privacy and convenience offered by phone.

Following a telephone screening our Social Worker will arrange a mutually convenient time, including evening and weekend hours, for you to connect with a LupusLine® peer support counselor from the privacy of your home. LupusLine® is a unique and invaluable resource. We can help with:

Counselor Stories

Maria-Elena Hodgson – LupusLine® Peer Counselor of 20 years

In 1988, I was told about the formation of the Lupus Line. I was excited with the idea because I did not want others to go through the same anguish I was facing. The thought of being able to help others as they faced their lupus diagnosis was truly exciting. Information and an understanding ear were and are the two items necessary to help others as they face a chronic illness. Instantly, I knew I wanted to be a part of this.

Today, here I am 26 years later, still love being a lupus line counselor. Many things changed in my personal life like getting married and having two wonderful children but I still am proud to be a counselor. When I first started, I thought I would be helping others –that was my goal. Today, I see how much being a counselor has helped me become a better listener, more compassionate and simply a better person. Little did I know all that I would gain by simply helping others.

In our members own words

"My counselor was very caring and warm. She was always available to me."
Marilyn, Brooklyn, New York

"LupusLine was fantastic. I learned about my lupus and about how to speak with my doctor more effectively."
Naomi, Whitestone, New York

Get involved!

Jenny Lin: LupusLine® Peer Counselor of 14 years

When I began my training as a LupusLine® counselor, my intention was to help other lupus patients and their families. I wanted to let them know that they were not alone in facing this illness and that if they had any questions or needed help, they could turn to others. I met my expectations. But what came as a surprise to me, was how much I grew as a person and how my life was enriched by my callers, my fellow counselors, my manager, and the LupusLine® staff. Although I fully intended to support and empower others, I found myself in a community that supported and empowered me as well.

I have had the joy and privilege of speaking with many Lupus patients and their families. They came from different ethnic, social, and economic backgrounds. They had so many life stories and perspectives to share. Despite all this diversity, we found common ground in the illness we all faced, the hope and struggle, and the humanity we saw in each other.

Since it began, LupusLine® has received over 20,000 phone calls, offering understanding and insight to people with lupus and their loved ones from around the country. We are always seeking volunteers (ages 18 and older) to help our programs grow. Participants find the training and volunteer experience extremely rewarding.

Before a volunteer becomes a peer counselor, they participate in an extensive training program. They will receive supervision in order to provide exceptional support, a listening ear, and help with problem solving all from the comfort of their own home.

If you live in the New York metropolitan area and would like to get involved we encourage you to contact the Program Manager at 212.606.1952.

Lupus Support Program Summaries

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