What is The LupieGirl, Inc.?
The LupieGirl, Inc. is an organization that provides a safe space that includes mental health wellness and financial support to those that are affected by Lupus and other chronic illnesses.
The LupieGirl, Inc. strives to help those who live with Lupus and/or other chronic illnesses to live "their best lives" by not solely focusing on the negative aspect of their illness but lifting up the positives, empowering them to do things that they may have wanted to do, but were discouraged to do. The LupieGirl, Inc. provides survivors with information and resources that may help people with chronic illnesses get back to work and create better relationships with people around them.
The LupieGirl’s messages will be delivered in a way that is culturally appropriate and sensitive to the needs of our audience. As a healthcare educator, The LupieGirl is trained in trauma informed care, and understand how trauma impacts the brain and what triggered-participant behaviors look like. The LupieGirl will be sensitive about introducing mental health and wellness concepts and will remain cognizant of what behaviors restore a sense of safety, power, and worth.
Through community education, social campaigns, support groups, and an annual Lupus Awareness Brunch in the month of May, The LupieGirl, Inc. will continue to capture the attention of individuals who may not be well-educated on chronic illnesses and empower them, especially the most affected group, women of color of color, who are diagnosed with Lupus and other chronic illnesses that aren't spoken enough about.
The LupieGirl, Inc. strives to help those who live with Lupus and/or other chronic illnesses to live "their best lives" by not solely focusing on the negative aspect of their illness but lifting up the positives, empowering them to do things that they may have wanted to do, but were discouraged to do. The LupieGirl, Inc. provides survivors with information and resources that may help people with chronic illnesses get back to work and create better relationships with people around them.
The LupieGirl’s messages will be delivered in a way that is culturally appropriate and sensitive to the needs of our audience. As a healthcare educator, The LupieGirl is trained in trauma informed care, and understand how trauma impacts the brain and what triggered-participant behaviors look like. The LupieGirl will be sensitive about introducing mental health and wellness concepts and will remain cognizant of what behaviors restore a sense of safety, power, and worth.
Through community education, social campaigns, support groups, and an annual Lupus Awareness Brunch in the month of May, The LupieGirl, Inc. will continue to capture the attention of individuals who may not be well-educated on chronic illnesses and empower them, especially the most affected group, women of color of color, who are diagnosed with Lupus and other chronic illnesses that aren't spoken enough about.
Brieana Salter, MHL.
President & Founder
The LupieGirl
At 18, during my freshman year of college, I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus. In 2011, my condition progressed, affecting my kidneys and leading to a diagnosis of Lupus Nephritis. By 2012, due to the severity of my illness, I made the difficult decision to leave Florida International University and return home to attend Palm Beach State College. In 2013, I earned my Associate's Degree and resumed my pursuit of a Bachelor's Degree.
Throughout this period, I faced significant health challenges, including frequent hospitalizations, unexpected rashes, and persistent fatigue. Despite my family’s concerns and suggestions to pause my education and focus on my health, I remained determined to continue. With steadfast determination and support, I proudly graduated in May 2015 with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Management from Palm Beach State College, Lake Worth.
It was during this time that I recognized the importance of raising awareness for Systemic Lupus, a disease many were unfamiliar with. I initially began developing The LupieGirl as a platform for advocacy but, after a brief period of discouragement, took it down. However, in May 2016, I relaunched The LupieGirl, and I have been actively raising awareness about the disease ever since.
Although I had initially planned to conclude my studies after earning my Bachelor's Degree, I chose to further my education. I was accepted into the Health Law Master's program at Nova Southeastern University, with a desire to expand my knowledge and advocacy efforts.
In early 2016, I received the news that my kidney function had declined rapidly due to Lupus, and I needed to begin dialysis immediately to avoid life-threatening consequences. Faced with this reality, I consented to treatment. On April 7, 2016, I started hemodialysis, followed by peritoneal dialysis a month later. During this challenging time, I made the decision to temporarily step away from my academic pursuits to focus on my health. By the fall of the same year, I was ready to return to my studies.
Shortly after completing a successful semester, I received life-changing news. On December 7, 2016, I underwent a kidney transplant at the Cleveland Clinic in Weston, Florida. With the support of a highly skilled medical team and my family, my recovery went exceptionally well, and the transplant significantly improved my quality of life.
Unfortunately, in October 2018, my transplanted kidney, which I affectionately named Bobby, failed and had to be removed. I returned to dialysis and was listed for a second transplant. In March 2021, I received my second kidney, Sammy. However, within three months, my body began rejecting the kidney, and it ultimately failed. I have since returned to home hemodialysis.
Despite these challenges, I remain committed to moving forward. Lupus and renal failure have required me to adjust my pace, but they will not stop my journey. I continue to pursue my goals, focusing on maintaining my health and advocating for those affected by chronic illness.
Throughout this period, I faced significant health challenges, including frequent hospitalizations, unexpected rashes, and persistent fatigue. Despite my family’s concerns and suggestions to pause my education and focus on my health, I remained determined to continue. With steadfast determination and support, I proudly graduated in May 2015 with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Management from Palm Beach State College, Lake Worth.
It was during this time that I recognized the importance of raising awareness for Systemic Lupus, a disease many were unfamiliar with. I initially began developing The LupieGirl as a platform for advocacy but, after a brief period of discouragement, took it down. However, in May 2016, I relaunched The LupieGirl, and I have been actively raising awareness about the disease ever since.
Although I had initially planned to conclude my studies after earning my Bachelor's Degree, I chose to further my education. I was accepted into the Health Law Master's program at Nova Southeastern University, with a desire to expand my knowledge and advocacy efforts.
In early 2016, I received the news that my kidney function had declined rapidly due to Lupus, and I needed to begin dialysis immediately to avoid life-threatening consequences. Faced with this reality, I consented to treatment. On April 7, 2016, I started hemodialysis, followed by peritoneal dialysis a month later. During this challenging time, I made the decision to temporarily step away from my academic pursuits to focus on my health. By the fall of the same year, I was ready to return to my studies.
Shortly after completing a successful semester, I received life-changing news. On December 7, 2016, I underwent a kidney transplant at the Cleveland Clinic in Weston, Florida. With the support of a highly skilled medical team and my family, my recovery went exceptionally well, and the transplant significantly improved my quality of life.
Unfortunately, in October 2018, my transplanted kidney, which I affectionately named Bobby, failed and had to be removed. I returned to dialysis and was listed for a second transplant. In March 2021, I received my second kidney, Sammy. However, within three months, my body began rejecting the kidney, and it ultimately failed. I have since returned to home hemodialysis.
Despite these challenges, I remain committed to moving forward. Lupus and renal failure have required me to adjust my pace, but they will not stop my journey. I continue to pursue my goals, focusing on maintaining my health and advocating for those affected by chronic illness.
I'VE GOT THIS!
Despite her Illness,
The LupieGirl Supports
Community Service, Leadership and Higher Education!
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The LupieGirl participated in the Equity Entrepreneur Center's (E2C) 2nd graduating class, 2nd to None, where she acquired crucial strategies and tools, applying them effectively to strengthen The LupieGirl, Inc. Moreover, this involvement offered her the opportunity to connect with fellow Black and Brown business owners who were also driving positive change within the community.
The Equity Entrepreneur Center is dedicated to furnishing comprehensive technical training and business support systems essential for upward mobility, increased capacity, growth, and sustained success. It addresses persistent economic barriers for Black, Brown, and Women-owned minority businesses by offering practical solutions. |
The LupieGirl, Inc. is a proud alumna of New Leaders Council (NLC) Palm Beach, a distinguished professional organization dedicated to training the next generation of leaders. Through their comprehensive "Institutes," NLC provides fellows with the opportunity to connect with professionals from diverse industries while developing key skills such as fundraising, public speaking, and fostering inclusivity.
Brieana successfully completed the six-month intensive program (Class of 2018), during which NLC Palm Beach provided her with valuable training and access to networks that contributed to the continued growth and development of The LupieGirl.
NLC’s mission is to develop, connect, and empower inclusive, cross-sector leaders who drive social and political change rooted in equity. Their vision is to build power among leaders closest to their communities, creating the country we aspire to become. NLC serves as a hub where new voices, innovative ideas, and emerging leaders converge to turn progress into reality.
Brieana successfully completed the six-month intensive program (Class of 2018), during which NLC Palm Beach provided her with valuable training and access to networks that contributed to the continued growth and development of The LupieGirl.
NLC’s mission is to develop, connect, and empower inclusive, cross-sector leaders who drive social and political change rooted in equity. Their vision is to build power among leaders closest to their communities, creating the country we aspire to become. NLC serves as a hub where new voices, innovative ideas, and emerging leaders converge to turn progress into reality.
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"Just because a person has a chronic illness and/or disability, it doesn't disqualify them from accomplishing dreams and goals that they have set out for themselves. I believe that ANYONE who wishes to do anything can and will as long as they remain strong with perseverance and endurance. I am a strong believer in being a leader and being at the leadership table."
-The LupieGirl
"Just because a person has a chronic illness and/or disability, it doesn't disqualify them from accomplishing dreams and goals that they have set out for themselves. I believe that ANYONE who wishes to do anything can and will as long as they remain strong with perseverance and endurance. I am a strong believer in being a leader and being at the leadership table."
-The LupieGirl
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The LupieGirl earned her Associate of Arts degree from Palm Beach State College in 2011, followed by a Bachelor's degree in Health Management in 2015.
Demonstrating her commitment to advancing her expertise in health advocacy and health compliance, she further obtained a Master’s degree in Health Law in 2018, with specializations in Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management. This educational journey reflects her dedication to mastering the complexities of healthcare law and management, equipping her to navigate and influence the evolving of healthcare advocacy. |
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