Many people with lupus are unable to attend existing support group meetings for a number of reasons- physical distance, inadequate finances, physical disability, social isolation or family responsibilities - yet need to connect with someone who is available and understands the ups and downs of this complex illness.

LupusLine Long Island/Queens, a free telephone peer counseling service for people with lupus and their families, is supported by the Lupus Alliance of America, Long Island/Queens Affiliate. This innovative program, originally developed by Hospital for Special Surgery and made possible through funding by Rheuminations, Inc., reaches out to the communities it seeks to serve in cooperation with the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation. The program allows trained, volunteer counselors with lupus themselves to speak with callers on an ongoing, or as needed basis about emotional concerns related to their illness. A person with lupus who calls the service is matched with a counselor who has been through a similar experience.

Call LupusLine Long Island/Queens 1-800-850-9000