Navigating Chronic Illness, Mental Health & Youth Empowerment

In this episode of the Lupus Speaks Podcast, I sit down with Sophia Galvis, a 17-year-old lupus warrior who has been living with lupus since she was diagnosed at age 12.

Despite facing the challenges of a chronic illness at a young age, Sophia has turned her journey into one of advocacy, resilience, and inspiration for others.

She opens up about:
✔️ The emotional and physical toll of lupus as a teenager
✔️ The crucial role of family support in her journey
✔️ How mental health and creative outlets help her cope
✔️ Using social media as a tool for advocacy
✔️ Her dreams of pursuing a career in communications & performing arts

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating life with a chronic illness, especially young people looking for inspiration, community, and hope.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more

Key Takeaways:

✅ Diagnosed at 12—Sophia’s journey began on her 12th birthday, changing her life forever.
✅ Family first—The unwavering support of her loved ones helped her find strength in tough times.
✅ Mental health matters—Sophia highlights the emotional challenges of living with a chronic illness.
✅ Advocacy is powerful—She is passionate about raising awareness for lupus, especially among young people.
✅ Creativity heals—Music and performing arts serve as a therapeutic escape.
✅ Better treatments are needed—She hopes to see more personalized medications for lupus in the future.
✅ Social media connects—Platforms like Instagram and TikTok allow her to share her story and empower others.
✅ Dreaming big—Sophia aspires to a career in communications and performing arts to continue her impact.

Memorable Quotes from Sophia:

💜 "There is another side."
💜 "I love talking to people."
💜 "I would like to see a lot actually."

Episode Breakdown:

⏳ 00:00 – Introduction to Sophia’s Journey with Lupus
👨‍👩‍👧 03:12 – The Role of Family in Recovery
💬 05:15 – Advice for Young Lupus Patients
📢 06:36 – The Power of Advocacy in Raising Awareness
💊 08:53 – Challenges in Finding the Right Treatment
🧘‍♀️ 10:15 – Mental Health & Self-Care Strategies
🎶 11:19 – Finding Strength in Music & Creativity
🌍 13:36 – Sophia’s Vision for the Future & Advocacy
🙏 15:16 – Gratitude & Personal Growth
📱 16:28 – Using Social Media to Inspire Others

Follow & Connect:

🔗 Follow Sophia Galvis
📸 Instagram: @sophiargalvis
🎵 TikTok: @sophiagalvis_watkins

🎙️ Follow Lupus Speaks Podcast for more inspiring stories!
🌍 Website: LupusSpeaks.org
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Lupus awareness, chronic illness advocacy, teen lupus warrior, mental health and chronic illness, lupus in young people, resilience with chronic illness, family support for chronic illness, self-care for lupus, youth empowerment, social media for advocacy