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Personal Update

Fall 2022

Hi Friends,

There has been a lot going on in my world, making it hard for me to create like I used to or be available for commissions. I want to connect with you and let you know what has been going on. 

 

This year has been a whirlwind of chaos. Here is the short version:

I woke up one February morning feeling great, ate breakfast and did my normal workout. A few hours later I noticed my arms and legs were extra stiff and sore and soon they would seize up. From that day on, I would experience so much pain, stiffness, fatigue, weight loss, hair loss, weakness, an inability to walk at times. I was utterly confused as to how and what was happening to me.

Come to find out, my immune system was also confused… My doctor, however, was not. I ended up with a new diagnosis: Systemic Lupus Erythematous. Like, wtf right?

Lupus is a serious autoimmune disease that has no cure and doesn’t come to play. I don’t think the wider society really even knows about it or understand the debilitating effects it has on the person with it or their family.

There are treatments available, some that are super effective and some that are downright awful (hello, methotrexate - I’m talking to you). It's really a trial and error type thing.

I’m early on in my treatment and there’s A LOT of grief. Like oceans full. But I’m hopeful (thanks, therapy). Optimistic. And I may even be feeling some of the benefits of medication already.

Life looks different. Feels different. Coming to terms with that.

Paintings, illustrations and weavings are still coming. Albeit, slow. Things are moving at a different pace for me right now, and that's ok. 

Thank you for your endless support, and for sticking around. Don't hesitate to drop a line and say "Hi". 

Love ya'll, 

Erika Wynn

healing 2.jpg

"Healing: A Verb"

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