FLIGHT OF THE BUTTERFLIES MAY 3, 2013

Kayla Haner-Osterhout

I have two beautiful children and an amazing husband. I've got my cosmetology license and graduated nursing school. I currently run my own business making toddler dresses and such. I plan on going back to school full time in the fall for criminal justice.


I was diagnosed in September of last year after years of thinking I was going crazy. Since diagnosis, I have lost function in my right kidney and the lupus has been attacking my lungs and my liver. I need new glasses at least twice a year as well. The fatigue is the worst. Sometimes I can't even make it out of bed. 


My daughter is 2, so she's a handful. My husband is in the oilfield so he's not home very often. I've tried to resist medications as much as possible but I'm losing how in that idea.


I'm going to beat this lupus. My doctor is trying to get me to go on permanent disability, but my dream is to be a cop. I know it's physically demanding, but I know I can do anything with support. 


I have done numerous events to raise awareness and am planning a fundraiser/benefit to raise money for finding a lupus cure. I've made it my mission and its something I'm very passionate about.