LUPUS UK is the only national registered charity supporting people with systemic lupus and discoid lupus and assisting those approaching diagnosis. We presently have over 8,000 Members and 30 Regional Groups who arrange medical talks, publish local newsletters, set up local occasions and organise fundraising events. LUPUS UK also produces an informative national magazine with lupus articles, letters, reports, and photographs.It also operates a strong Grant Programme for research purposes and welfare.

Lupus causes the body's immune system to go into overdrive and starts to attack itself.It is believed that over 50,000 people throughout the UK suffer with Lupus of whom 90% are female.The symptoms are many and varied, and the condition often seems to mimic other diseases.This gives rise to difficulty in diagnosis and the condition can be overlooked for years, unless the GP or consultant is alert to the possibility of LUPUS.

Symptoms can include; extreme fatigue, eye problems, joint/muscle pain, depression, miscarriage, hair loss, anaemia, facial and other rashes as well as the possible involvement of kidneys, heart, lungs or brain.

There is NO CURE and patients are likely to remain under medical care with continuing medication.Lupus can adversely affect the lives of patients, their families, colleagues and friends.

John Hibbs travelled to meet Andy Bishop, Bury FC striker, to get the next stage of the fundraising underway.Andy and the club have donated a signed Bury FC shirt along with 2 match day tickets for a home game following the auction's completion to raise funds for Lupus UK.Andy is mine and Viki's cousin and so we are really grateful for all the support he has generated to raise the profile of Lupus.Thanks Cous.

After arriving at the ground and having a quick coffee, Andy handed over the fantastic shirt, a picture of which you can see here. Unfortunately, the planned lunch was postponed as Andy, who is recovering from surgery, has been given the go-ahead to resume full training so we may see him back in action sooner than expected.

The auction is open until Sunday 7th February at 2pm, current highest bid is £80.00

If you want to place a bid for the shirt and tickets, you can find all the details listed here

You can find more info on the LUPUS UK Fundraising appeal by clicking here