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Lupus warriors are recognized with sashes and tiaras at the Lupus Awareness Program in Denmark.
Edward Allen and Dianna Richburg performed a mime act to the song "Amazing God" during the 10th Annual Lupus Awareness Program and 1st Kidney Disease Awareness Program.
On May 20, Dianna Richburg, a survivor and advocate of lupus, sponsored two events to provide awareness about lupus and kidney diseases. Both events were successful.
The Lupus Awareness Drive-Thru was held that morning at Enterprise Bank in Denmark. As the many people rode thru, they were provided with information about the diseases, bracelets, and other souvenirs. They encouraged us to continue spreading the word about lupus and kidney disease. Susan Holman told Richburg "to continue to be a true warrior, never to give up, and always trust in God for strength.” The people really showed their support. Richburg extends thanks to the bank manager for allowing the use of the parking lot.
The 10th Annual Lupus Awareness Program and 1st Annual Kidney Disease Awareness Program was held at 3 p.m. on the campus of Voorhees University where Dr. Ronnie Hopkins is the president. The theme was: “The Power of GOD Protects Me! – Healing Through a Variety of Music and Dance”. The program was MC by Jamie Jones in which he opened with the welcome and occasion.
The supporters were blessed with the invocation by Mary Carter. The Lupus Warriors then lit candles in honor of the fallen Lupus angels. Dianna then recognized the Lupus Warriors by providing them with tiaras and warrior sashes. The members of the “Denmark Technical College Alumni Choir”, “The Flame Within”, “Ashley Jordan as Glyshae” and “Jaz McDaniel as Prescott” blessed the audience with selections that inspired the hearts of the hearers.
Following the beautiful selections, LaTaryl Youmans (warrior) introduced guest speaker Ms. Jade Nealious (warrior), the founder of Crowning Lupus of Aiken. Warrior Jade Nealious’ topic was the same as the theme. Jade provided the audience with a wealth of knowledge and encouragement regardless to any issue one may have. She summarized it by stating, ”You know that God is protecting over everyone by choosing Him and committing yourself to Him. You can commit in three ways: 1. Identity, 2. Appetite, and 3. Capacity”.
The speaker gave everyone in attendance homework of letting go of negative labels and replace them with positivity.
After such dynamic words, the audience was favored with more selections from our guest musicians and vocalists. Edward Allen and Dianna Richburg surprised the audience with a mime performance with the song “Amazing God” by William Murphy. Dottie Banks and Sonya Felder, both kidney recipients of Barnwell, spoke on their journeys with kidney disease and the blessing of receiving kidneys.
“No matter what you are going through in life, never give up. Keep the faith by lifting each other up!” said Banks.
After such a beautiful program, Dianna Richburg came with teary-eyed remarks. She gave all honor and praised God and thanked everyone for their prayers, support, donations, and any part they took in making this event a success.
A special thanks was extended to Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, president of Voorhees University; Willie Jefferson and team; Dr. Yvette McDaniel, CRAWL president and the musicians’ advisor; Edward Allen; All of the Warriors from the surrounding counties; and her support staff.
Dianna Richburg stated that “the main purposes of the event were to spread the word about this incurable autoimmune disease called lupus, open the eyes about kidney disease, learn how to encourage those living with the diseases, and pray researchers find a cure very soon.”
Afterwards, the meal was blessed by Detra Peterson. Finally, Myron Booker and friends entertained the audience as everyone dined and fellowshipped.
Richburg will continue to spread awareness, walk in faith, and fight the fight! She is looking forward to assisting others when in need.
