Lupus Diagnosis:
What Should I Do Now?

Welcome to Marlene's Kaleidoscope Where We Focus on

Turning a Conversation into Action for Lupus

Every day, countless people in our community quietly face the challenges of lupus—a disease that often goes unnoticed. More than 1.5 million Americans live with lupus, touching families across the country. At Marlene’s Kaleidoscope (MK4Lupus) , we’re bringing lupus out of the shadows through awareness, education, wellness, and financial support, helping hundreds of families in the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area annually.

Understanding Lupus

How We Help

Did You Know that Lupus is More Prevalent than AIDS, Sickle Cell, Anemia, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, and Cystic Fibrosis Combined?

01.

Financial Assistance & Legacy Scholarship

We understand how financial challenges can impact individuals and families, especially during difficult times. Our programs are designed to lift spirits, ease burdens, and empower those facing chronic conditions to live their lives with hope and dignity. We are committed to providing not just financial support, but also a network of resources and a compassionate community to help individuals and families navigate these challenges.

Get Assistance

02.

Lupus Awareness,
Education & Advocacy

Lupus is a complex disease that many are unfamiliar with, which is why we take pride in educating and advocating for those affected. Through outreach and community support, we work to raise awareness and empower individuals to take control of their health and speak up for their well-being. Our efforts focus on creating a sense of unity and hope, ensuring that everyone affected feels seen and heard.

Get Educated

03.

Health, Wellness and Community Relations

There’s nothing more important than your health, especially when living with lupus. We’re here to support your emotional, mental, and physical well-being every step of the way. Through community partnerships, we provide the resources and support you need to face life’s obstacles with strength and confidence.

Get Connected

How We Help

Upcoming Events

MK News & Insights

Marlene's Kaleidoscope Welcomes Krissy Huffman, Our New Community Engagement Specialist

What to Do as a Caretaker for Someone with Lupus

Stay Connected with us on Social Media
@MK4Lupus

Join us in welcoming @kckrissyg to our team! With over 25 years of nonprofit experience—including nearly a decade with the NFL Alumni Association— Krissy knows how to turn ideas into impact. Now, she’s bringing her passion and expertise to our mission of lupus awareness and support!

Want to know more about Krissy and what makes her the perfect fit for our team? Are you interested in connecting with Krissy? Read our latest blog post—click the link in our bio! 💜🦋

#MarleneKaleidoscope #LupusAwareness #mk4Lupus #communityengagement

The wait is over! Have you signed up for our Heart of Change event yet?

Join us as Dr. Michelle Dew dives into the critical intersection of lupus, menopause, and wellness. As a board-certified cardiologist at Advent Health KC with over 16 years of experience, Dr. Dew is dedicated to advancing cardiac care for women and empowering communities through education.

This is a conversation you don’t want to miss! Secure your spot today—register now. Link in bio.

Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day! 💜

Dr. King said it best: "Our days begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter." At Marlene's Kaleidoscope, we refuse to be silent about lupus and the countless lives it touches. We're committed to raising awareness, providing resources, and empowering those living with this disease to thrive.

Today, we choose to honor Dr. King’s legacy by continuing to speak up, advocate, and take action for what truly matters.

#MLKDay #LupusAwareness #MarlenesKaleidoscope #MK4Lupus

✨ Happy Holidays from Marlene’s Kaleidoscope! ✨

As we reflect on this season of love, joy, and giving, we are incredibly grateful for our community of supporters who help us shine a light on lupus awareness and provide resources to those who need it most.

May your holidays be filled with warmth, happiness, and hope for the year ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey to make a difference! 💜

#HappyHolidays #LupusAwareness #Gratitude

Last week was so much fun! We kicked off the holiday season by cheering on our friends at @pwockcmo during their Winter Wonderland event.

Then, we joined @thesoulofsanta for their beautiful Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony dedicated toward Lupus awareness and their annual Benefit Concert—it was such a magical night!

At Marlene’s Kaleidoscope, we love spreading awareness about lupus and connecting with the amazing people in Kansas City who are making a difference. It’s all about coming together as a community!
.
.
#mk4lupus #thesoulofsanta #pwoc

Each year, approximately 16,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease that profoundly affects their lives. For those facing this challenging journey, the need for understanding, support, and access to essential education and resources is paramount—not only for themselves but for their families as well.

At Marlene’s Kaleidoscope of Kansas City, we are a beacon of hope—starting conversations that spark action, raising awareness, and building a stronger, more informed community. With your support, we can continue to turn awareness into empowerment. Join us in shining a light on lupus and changing lives. Your generosity starts the conversation and creates a lasting impact.

This Giving Tuesday, make an impact that stays right here in Kansas City. With your generous support, 100% of your donation goes directly to providing scholarships, financial assistance, and vital support for individuals and families affected by lupus. Together, we can ensure they have access to the resources they need to thrive. Join us in turning compassion into action—every dollar makes a difference in our community!

Donate today!

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Marlene’s Kaleidoscope!

Today, we’re taking a moment to say how grateful we are for you—our incredible lupus warriors, supporters, and families. You’re the heart of everything we do, and we’re so thankful to be in this fight alongside you.

Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or just sneaking an extra slice of pie (no judgment here ), we hope today brings you comfort, joy, and maybe even a little peace.

Remember, you’re stronger than you realize and more loved than you know.

With all our gratitude,

The Marlene’s Kaleidoscope Board

We had an incredible time celebrating with our friends at @thesoulofsanta as they lit up the stunning 50-foot Christmas tree at The Shops on Blue Parkway!

This beautiful event wasn’t just about spreading holiday cheer—it also helped raise awareness for people with disabilities and the resources they need to thrive. We’re always happy to partner with such incredible organizations making a difference!

As the leaves turn and the holiday spirit fills the air, we're thrilled to announce the return of our Adopt-a-Family program! This season, we’re spreading joy by gifting a little extra love to families affected by lupus. Our goal is to provide them with comfort and cheer during the holidays, and we need your help to make it happen.

If you or someone you know could use this special support, apply today at mk4lupus.org. Let's make this season unforgettable for families facing the challenges of lupus—together, we can bring warmth, joy, and a bit of magic to their lives. Don’t wait, applications are open now!
.
.
#mk4lupus #marleneskaleidoscope #lupusawareness #holidayseason

We are thrilled to announce that @university_health_kc has joined us as a proud sponsor for our Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret Brunch! 🎉✨ Their support means so much in our fight to raise awareness, provide resources, and unlock better care for those impacted by lupus.

University Health’s commitment to improving community health aligns perfectly with our mission at Marlene’s Kaleidoscope. Together, we will make a powerful impact on the lives of lupus warriors, providing the education, advocacy, and resources they need to thrive. 💜💪

Join us on next Saturday, October 19th, from 10 am – 2 pm, as we celebrate, empower, and raise funds to continue this important work. Tickets are still available! Let’s unlock the lupus secret together! 🦋💫

#MarleneKaleidoscope #WellnessWhispers #LupusAwareness #UniversityHealth

Experience an inspiring and uplifting morning at Marlene’s Kaleidoscope’s Wellness Whispers Brunch: Unlocking the Lupus Secret on October 19th from 10am to 2pm at the elegant Intercontinental Hotel! This year’s event brings together two powerful keynote speakers: Dr. Nuria Lara-Castillo, who will unveil the latest in lupus research, and Turiya Tomlin Randall, sharing her deeply personal story as a caregiver who lost her sister to lupus.

Elevating the atmosphere will be the enchanting sounds of jazz sensation @jzzylady, whose rich, velvety vocals will create an unforgettable ambiance. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a cause that touches so many lives. Tickets are still available—click the link in our bio to reserve your seat today!
.
.
#mk4lupus #marleneskaleidoscope #lupus #fundraiser

Exciting News! We are thrilled to announce that Ms. Kenney & Anita Powell have officially joined us as proud sponsors for our Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret Brunch Fundraiser! 🌸

Their unwavering support for Marlene’s Kaleidoscope and dedication to finding a cure for lupus is truly inspiring. Both Ms. Kenney and Anita Powell have been long-time advocates, working tirelessly to help raise awareness and provide hope for those affected by Lupus. 💜

With their generous sponsorship, we are one step closer to making a meaningful impact in the fight against Lupus and continuing our mission to empower, educate, and support those in need.

We are beyond grateful for their commitment and look forward to creating an unforgettable event together! 🙌✨

#MarleneKaleidoscope #WellnessWhispers #LupusAwareness

Exciting News! 🌟 We are thrilled to announce that @unitedhealthcare has officially joined us as a sponsor for Marlene’s Kaleidoscope’s Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret Brunch fundraiser! 🎉

As a leader in health insurance, United Healthcare is dedicated to empowering individuals to live healthier lives, and we are honored to have their support in our mission to raise awareness, provide resources, and offer assistance to those impacted by lupus.

Their partnership brings us one step closer to making a lasting difference in the lupus community, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their commitment to wellness and advocacy. 💜

Join us on Saturday, October 19th, for an inspiring event filled with hope, unity, and education as we continue unlocking the lupus secret. Tickets are still available but are going fast! Click the link in our bio to grab tickets!
.
.
#MalenesKaleidoscope #Mk4lupus #UnitedHealthcare #lupus

We are thrilled to announce that @childrensmercy , the largest hospital dedicated to providing top-quality healthcare for children, has officially joined us as a sponsor for our Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret Brunch fundraiser! 🦋💜

Children’s Mercy’s commitment to improving the lives of children and their families aligns perfectly with our mission to raise awareness and provide critical resources for those living with lupus. Their support means we can make an even greater impact in unlocking the mysteries of lupus and empowering our community with the tools they need for better health and wellness.

Join us on Saturday, October 19th as we unite to support lupus warriors and their families! Together, with partners like Children’s Mercy, we’re moving closer to unlocking the secrets of lupus and bringing hope to those who need it most.

💜 To learn more about the event or to get involved, click the link in our bio or visit mk4lupus.org!

#MarleneKaleidoscope #WellnessWhispers #ChildrensMercy #LupusAwareness #CommunitySupport #UnlockingTheSecret

We’re beyond thrilled to welcome @samrodgerskc as a proud sponsor of our Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret Brunch fundraiser! 🦋✨

Samuel Rodgers has long been dedicated to providing quality healthcare to low-income communities, and we are honored to have their support as we work together to raise awareness and resources for lupus.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to serving underserved communities and for joining us in raising awareness and resources for lupus.

Tickets are still available, and it’s not too late to become a sponsor! Be part of this incredible event on October 19th as we unite to make a lasting impact. 🌸

#MarleneKaleidoscope #SamuelRodgers #WellnessWhispers #LupusAwareness #UnlockingTheLupusSecret

Who’s ready for a getaway to Cabo? Marlene’s Kaleidoscope is raffling off an all-expense-paid trip to Mexico! For just $100, you could soon be soaking up the sun on a beach, living the dream.

Click the link in our bio or visit our website mk4lupus.org to get your tickets now! The lucky winner will be revealed at our Wellness Whispers Brunch on October 19th!

#LupusAwareness #Lupus #MK4Lupus #MarlenesKaleidoscope

Have you grabbed your tickets to the Kansas City Conference for Women @sheslocal_kansascity yet? We’re thrilled to have our Founder & CEO @llipprand as one of the incredible panelists!

We look forward to seeing you there! 🙌
Panel 10/10: Bridging the Gap: Women Leading Community Change w/ La Tanya Pitts-Lipprand, Allie Lohman, & Dani Moore.
.
Join us Thursday, Oct 17 | Doubletree Hilton - Overland Park | $52 👈
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW: https://sheslocal.org/kansas-city-conference-for-women/
.
#weareworthy2024 #sheslocal_kansascity #sheslocal #marleneskaleidoscope #mk4lupus

Just five days left to purchase your early bird tickets and join us for the ‘Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret’ Brunch!

Early Bird tickets are available until Labor Day! Don’t miss out on this inspiring event dedicated to those affected by Lupus. Link in bio.
.
.
#UnlockingLupusSecrets #WellnessWhispers #fundraiser #lupusawareness #marleneskaleidoscope

Have you grabbed your tickets yet? 🎟️✨ What are you waiting for? Don’t miss our “Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret” Brunch fundraiser on Saturday, October 19th, from 10 am - 2 pm!

🌟 Join us for an inspiring morning filled with support, education, and community. Early bird tickets are available now until September 1st—secure yours today and be part of a meaningful cause. Together, we can make a difference! 💜 Link in bio.

#LupusAwareness #WellnessWhispers #Fundraiser #SupportLupus

We’re hiring! Who’s ready to step into their purpose by impacting change? That’s what this role is!

Marlene’s Kaleidoscope is looking for a passionate Community Health Worker (CHW) to help us increase awareness and education about Lupus and related diseases. If you’re driven to close health equity gaps and work with community partners to make a real impact, this is the opportunity for you!

As our CHW, you’ll collaborate with local organizations, health coalitions, and more to bring vital information and support to those who need it most.

Apply today by clicking the link in our bio and be part of our mission to create lasting change! 💜

#Hiring #CommunityHealthWorker #LupusAwareness #MarleneKaleidoscope #JoinOurTeam

Meet our phenomenal keynote speaker, Dr. Nuria Lara-Castillo! With over 15 years of experience in molecular disease research, including postdoctoral work at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Lara-Castillo has been a driving force in advancing our understanding of complex diseases. As a Senior Research Associate and Lab Director, she’s authored numerous scientific publications and presented groundbreaking findings at major conferences worldwide.

Now, Dr. Lara-Castillo is turning conversation into action by transforming research so we get one step closer to finding a cure for Lupus. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired by her dedication and vision—grab your early bird tickets today for $25 off! Link in bio!

#KeynoteSpeaker #LupusResearch #MedicalInnovation #InspiringChange

🌟 Exciting news! Sponsorship opportunities are now available for our “Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret” Brunch fundraiser on October 19th. 🌸

Join us in supporting those affected by Lupus-related diseases by becoming a sponsor! With options ranging from the Monarch Sponsorship at $10,000 to the Photobooth Sponsor at $1,000, there’s a level that fits your impact. 🌟

Let’s make a difference together! For more details and to secure your spot, visit our website or DM us. 💜
.
.
#lupusawareness #lupus #marleneskaleidoscope #fundraiser #wellnesswhispers

We’re excited to share that our Founder & CEO @llipprand is a panel speaker at the inaugural @sheslocal_kansascity Kansas City Conference for Women! The theme this year is #WeAreWorthy2024 and we ARE! Right KC? Looking forward to spending the day sharing, learning, and connecting! Hope to see you there!
.
.
#marleneskaleidoscope #latanyalipprand #lupusawareness #weareworthy2024

🦋 What if one conversation could change everything? 🎉 Early bird tickets are NOW available for the Wellness Whispers: Unlocking the Lupus Secret Brunch fundraiser!

Lupus is a chronic, often invisible illness that affects millions worldwide, but together, we can shine a light on the fight against it. 💜 Join us on October 19th for a powerful day of support, education, and community as we come together to unlock the secrets of Lupus and empower those affected by it.

Every ticket purchased brings us one step closer to turning awareness into action. Don’t miss out—get your early bird tickets before September 1st and be part of something bigger! Link in bio!
.
.
#lupusawareness #lupus #marleneskaleidoscope #fundraiser 🦋 #WellnessWhispers #UnlockingTheSecret #InvisibleIllness

Today Marlene's Kaleidoscope had the pleasure of being a vendor at the Generation Prodigy BTS Fair. What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday by getting the conversation started about Lupus and the amazing ways we support the Lupus community.

Join us for our inaugural Pulling Back the Curtain fundraiser! This year, we invite you to our Wellness Whispers Brunch, where we will focus on unlocking the lupus secret on October 19th from 10am - 2pm.

Enjoy a delightful brunch while supporting our mission to empower those affected by Lupus and raise awareness in our community. Your participation brings us one step closer to a world where everyone has the support they need. Grab your tickets today! Link in bio!

#lupusawareness #marleneskaleidoscope #fundraiser

Join us May 10th from 4-6 p.m. on the patio at Grand Street Cafe for Cocktails for a CAUSE. We're excited to keep the conversation started as we celebrate Lupus Awareness Month. Every drink sold; one dollar goes to Marlene's Kaleidoscope. Meet us next Friday.

There are lesser-known symptoms of lupus that you might not be aware of:

1: Cognitive Challenges and Lupus

Your head hurts, and you can't think straight—it might be more than just stress. Up to 50% of people with lupus experience what's known as "lupus fog," including issues with memory and concentration. This can be accompanied by migraine-like headaches due to inflammation in the blood vessels. Sometimes, lupus can even lead to neurological symptoms like numbness or tingling due to nerve damage. If you're experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to talk to your doctor about lupus.

2: When Breathing Becomes Painful -Lupus and Your Lungs

Experiencing sharp chest pain when you cough or breathe deeply? This could be a sign of pleurisy, an inflammation of the lining of your lungs, commonly seen in lupus patients. Lupus can also inflame the heart's lining, leading to pain that changes with your position. If lying down makes the pain worse, but sitting up relieves it, it's time to consult your healthcare provider.

3: Numbness in Extremities -Feeling Cold and Numb?

If your fingers or toes blanch, go numb, and turn blue or white, especially under cold conditions or stress, you might be experiencing Raynaud's phenomenon. This condition affects up to a third of those with lupus, impacting blood circulation due to narrowed vessels. Don't overlook these signs; they're crucial indicators of underlying issues like lupus.

#LupusAwareness #ChestPain #Pleurisy #HeartHealth #LupusAwareness #RaynaudsPhenomenon #CirculatoryHealth #LupusAwareness #ChestPain #Pleurisy #HeartHealth
#lupuskc #MK4LUPUS

@followers
Everyone
La Tanya Lipprand

Spot the Signs: Common Symptoms of Lupus Everyone Should Know

Hello, community! This Lupus Awareness Month, we're shedding light on the signs of Lupus, a complex autoimmune disease that can affect anyone, but many people remain unaware of its symptoms. Swipe through our carousel to learn about the symptoms to watch for.
1. Fatigue - One of the most common symptoms affecting daily activities.
2. Joint Pain & Swelling** - Often one of the first signs of Lupus.
3. Skin Rash - Notably, the butterfly rash across the cheeks and nose.
4. Fever - Unexplained fever that comes and goes.
5.*Photosensitivity - Skin reactions to sunlight.
6. Kidney Issues - Changes in urine pattern or kidney function.
7. Dry Eyes & Mouth - Often associated with secondary Sjögren's syndrome.

Why It’s Important
Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to timely diagnosis and management, improving the quality of life for those with Lupus.

Call to action: Let's spread the word! Share this post with friends and family to raise awareness. The more we know, the better we can support our loved ones affected by Lupus.

Tag Us
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, consult with a healthcare provider. Don't forget to tag us in your stories or posts if you share about your journey with Lupus!

#LupusAwarenessMonth #SpotTheSigns #LupusSymptoms #AutoimmuneAwareness #MarlenesKaleidoscope #MarlenesKaleidoscope #MK4LUPUS #lupuswarriors💜 #DidYouKnow #lupuskc #lupusawarenessmonth #lupus #kcmolupus #mk4lupus #kcmo #kcmolupus #LupusAwareness #maylupus #HealthEducation #autoimmunedisease

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

Lupus Diagnosis: What Should I Do Now?

Turning a Conversation into Action for Lupus

Did You Know that Lupus is More Prevalent than AIDS, Sickle Cell, Anemia, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, and Cystic Fibrosis Combined?

01.

02.

Lupus Awareness, Education & Advocacy

03.

How We Help

Upcoming Events

MK News & Insights

Stay Connected with us on Social Media @MK4Lupus

​

Lupus Diagnosis:
What Should I Do Now?

Lupus Awareness,
Education & Advocacy

Stay Connected with us on Social Media
@MK4Lupus