Date: March 27, 2025 By: Toshia Hall-Franks Founder & CEO of MPPLCINC

Rising Through the Storm: Our Journey Forward Together 

The past couple of months have been some of the most challenging moments we’ve ever faced at Mahogany Pattern’s Purple Life Charity INC. As someone living with an autoimmune disease, I’ve had my share of hospital visits—but this recent one tested every ounce of my strength. While recovering, our charity faced its setback: an unexpected suspension due to a paperwork error. 

It felt like the world paused just as we were gaining momentum. Because of the suspension, we missed out on funding opportunities and vital deadlines—but we did not lose hope. I paid the fine, and we’re actively working to resume operations. We are moving forward with purpose and resilience. 

Our community has always been our “why.” We serve warriors—individuals and families navigating the often-overlooked world of autoimmune diseases and disorders. To be momentarily silenced was painful, but this setback has only deepened our passion and drive. 

Tragically, during this time, we also experienced the loss of our cherished board secretary. Their dedication and love for our mission were unmatched, and we honor their memory in every step we take forward. 

Despite everything, I’m proud to share that my health is improving, and I’m continuing my education—working toward my bachelor's in business management administration after earning my Associate’s. This journey is personal, and every challenge I face becomes fuel for the fire that keeps MPPLCINC alive. 

We are currently seeking new board members—leaders with passion, heart, and a desire to make real change in the autoimmune community. If you’ve ever wanted to be part of something meaningful, now is the time to step in and stand with us. 

Although we missed funding deadlines, we’re not giving up. We will rise stronger. We will find new ways. And we will always remind our community: You Are Not Alone. 

Thank you to everyone who has supported us, prayed for us, and walked with us. The next chapter is beginning—and we’re writing it together. 

With love and strength, 
Toshia Hall-Franks 
Founder & CEO 
Mahogany Pattern’s Purple Life Charity INC. 

My Journey Through the Maze of Healthcare: A Call for Change and Hope in Lupus Treatment

As many of you know, living with Lupus is a daily battle, not just with the symptoms but often with the very system meant to provide us care. Recently, my struggles have taken me through experiences highlighting stark contrasts in healthcare standards across different regions and institutions.

During my recent hospital stays at McLeod Hospital in Dillon, SC, I faced situations that left me concerned and disheartened. Unlike my treatments back home in Staten Island, NY, basic safeguards that I had come to expect were overlooked. For instance, during an X-ray, necessary protective measures like padding for breast protection were not provided, nor was I given a pregnancy test before the procedure—precautions that are standard and critical for patient safety.

These oversights are not just administrative failures; they underscore a larger issue of inconsistent healthcare practices that can significantly affect patient outcomes and experiences. It’s a reminder of the disparities that exist in our healthcare system and the additional challenges faced by those of us living with autoimmune diseases.

As I prepare to return home to see my specialists in New York, my heart is heavy at the thought of leaving behind the charity work that fuels my passion. However, this journey has reinforced my resolve to advocate not just for better care but for accelerated research into autoimmune diseases like Lupus.

A Plea for Action

To the brilliant minds in the scientific community, I extend a plea to intensify research efforts to understand and cure Lupus. We need breakthroughs that can transform lives, not in distant futures, but in our lifetimes.

To researchers and institutions conducting studies on autoimmune diseases, Mahogany Pattern’s Purple Life Charity Inc. stands ready to support and advertise your efforts. By working together, we can amplify the impact of research and bring hope to millions suffering silently across the globe.

A Call to Our Community

I urge you all not to remain silent about your healthcare experiences. Share your stories, the good and the bad, so we can collectively push for a system that is more than just adequate but is exemplary. Let's advocate for standards that ensure no one's safety is compromised, no matter where they receive treatment.

Your stories and support can be instrumental in driving change. Let’s unite our voices for better healthcare standards and a future where autoimmune diseases like Lupus can be a thing of the past.

Together, we are not just survivors but warriors fighting for a brighter tomorrow.

#LupusWarrior

#LupusAwareness #AutoimmuneSupport #HealthcareAdvocacy #ChronicIllness #FightLupus #LupusResearch #HealthEquity #PatientRights #InvisibleIllness

Finding Light in the Shadows: Navigating Flares and Fighting Depression

Hello, friends,

Today, I find myself in a familiar yet always challenging place, dealing with a lupus flare that tests my limits not just physically but emotionally as well. I'm writing this to share my struggles and, reach out to those who might feel isolated in your battles.

Flares are like uninvited guests that disrupt our lives without warning. The physical pain and fatigue are hard enough, but the emotional toll is what often weighs heaviest. Sleep has been elusive lately, and with each restless night, my mental resilience wanes. I know many of you can relate to this feeling when it seems like the flare not only attacks your body but also assaults your peace of mind.

The truth is, that flares can lead to depression. It's a tough battle when your body and mind are conflicted. But as I navigate this challenging time, I want to share some strategies that have helped me cope:

1. Connect with Others: Talking to friends, family, or a support group about feelings can provide relief and a sense of community.

2. Set Small, Achievable Goals: On days when it feels like too much, focus on small tasks. Completing even the simplest activity can provide a sense of accomplishment and normalcy.

3. Seek Professional Help: There’s no shame in seeking help from a therapist or counselor. Mental health is as important as physical health, and professional guidance can be invaluable.

4. Prioritize Rest: Listen to your body. If you need to rest, allow yourself to do so without guilt. Finding moments of tranquility can aid both your physical recovery and your mental health.

5. Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help center your thoughts and reduce anxiety, helping you manage both emotional and physical pain.

I share this to offer advice and remind you, and myself, that we are not alone. We fight together, support each other, and when one of us falls, we lift each other back up. If you're struggling, please reach out. You don't have to fight alone. We are a community, and together, we can weather these storms.

With love and solidarity, Toshia Hall-Franks CEO and Founder.

Strength Through Support: Finding Power in Connection

At Mahogany Pattern’s Purple Life Charity Inc., we understand that navigating life with an autoimmune condition can sometimes feel isolating. The journey is filled with ups and downs, but one thing we are certain of is that you are not alone. The strength of a community can be a powerful tool in managing the challenges we face, and it’s something we truly believe in.

As a Lupus survivor and founder of MPPLC INC., I know firsthand how important it is to feel supported. Our community, full of warriors fighting autoimmune diseases and disorders, strengthens us. We share the same understanding, encouragement, and hope when we come together.

This is why we're excited to share the Strength Through Support concept—an illustration of the power we find in connection. Picture this: a serene room bathed in natural light, plants gently swaying in the breeze, and a woman with long dreadlocks performing a peaceful yoga pose. Surrounding her is a glowing purple heart, symbolizing the love and strength we carry as a community. Floating bubbles or spheres represent the collective support from those who truly care.

What does strength through support look like for you?

Perhaps it’s the kind words of a friend who understands your struggle. Maybe it’s a virtual class where you feel like part of something bigger. Whatever form it takes, the idea remains the same: support gives us strength, and together, we are unstoppable.

We invite you to join us on this journey, to share your stories, and to lean on the community we’re building here at MPPLC INC. As we continue to raise awareness and provide resources for those affected by autoimmune diseases, we encourage you to stay connected. We stand together as warriors, shining our light and showing the world that no matter how challenging our paths may be, we have the power to move forward—with strength, hope, and support.

Together Through Loss: Finding Strength in Community

Loss is something that touches us all. It comes quietly, uninvited, and leaves us feeling hollow and adrift. Whether it is the loss of a loved one, the loss of health, or even the loss of dreams, the pain is deep, raw, and undeniably human. For me, the hardest part of loss has always been the feeling of being alone—like no one else could truly understand the heartbreak that clings to every breath, or the emptiness that follows.

But over time, I’ve learned something powerful: we are never truly alone in our pain. Even in the darkest moments, there is someone out there who knows what it’s like to wake up with a heaviness in their chest, trying to gather the strength just to face another day. There is someone else who understands how difficult it is to put on a brave face, to smile when all you want to do is scream. There is someone else who knows the long nights spent replaying memories, grasping at moments that are gone but never forgotten.

It is in those moments of connection—those small, unspoken “me too” moments—that true healing begins. When we dare to share our stories, when we dare to say, “I’ve been there,” we become a lifeline for someone else. That’s why I have made it my mission to provide a space where no one has to endure their struggles in silence. Mahogany Pattern's Purple Life Charity Inc. is built on the foundation of support, of understanding, and of never letting anyone feel like they are fighting alone.

Grief is heavy, but together we can lighten the load. You don’t have to walk this path alone. Whether you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, mourning your health, or feeling lost in your journey, know that you matter, and you belong here. We see you. We stand with you. And in this space, your story is heard, your tears are felt, and your heart is held.

If you’re reading this and you feel the weight of loss, know that you have a community that cares. We’re here, not with easy answers or quick fixes, but with open hearts and listening ears. And if you’re brave enough to share, we’ll be brave enough to listen. You’re not alone—we are all in this together.

“Me too.” Two simple words, but they can change everything. Let’s change things together.

A Journey of Strength: The Untold Story of Sarah’s Battle with Lupus By Mahogany Pattern's Purple Life Charity Inc.

A Journey of Strength: The Untold Story of Sarah’s Battle with Lupus

By Mahogany Pattern's Purple Life Charity Inc.

Lupus isn’t just a word—it's a battle. A silent, invisible battle that millions of people fight every day. Sarah’s story will stay with you, long after you read the final words.

The Beginning: A Life Turned Upside Down

Sarah was only 28 when the first signs of lupus crept into her life. What started as fatigue, joint pain, and rashes were dismissed by doctors as “just stress” or “a passing illness.” But Sarah knew something was wrong. She was a passionate school teacher, working long hours to shape the next generation, but suddenly, she could hardly get out of bed. She went from one doctor to the next, hoping for answers, but what she faced was more confusion and a growing sense of isolation.

Then, after months of tests, a diagnosis came—Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the body’s healthy tissues. For Sarah, this news hit harder than any illness could. It was a life sentence to fatigue, pain, and uncertainty. She felt overwhelmed and alone.

The Struggle: Battling the Unknown

Lupus doesn’t just affect the body; it chips away at the spirit. Every flare-up meant another hospital visit, another day away from the classroom, another disappointment. Sarah found herself battling not just her illness, but also the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding autoimmune diseases. Friends and family tried to understand, but how could they? There was no visible sign of what she was going through.

The emotional toll was just as heavy. “Why me?” became a question Sarah asked herself daily. The physical pain was hard enough to endure, but it was the emotional exhaustion that nearly broke her. She felt like she was fighting a war no one could see.

But in the darkest moments, Sarah found something unexpected—hope. Through a local support group, she connected with people who understood. For the first time, she didn't feel alone. Others shared her struggles, her pain, and her victories. They laughed together, cried together, and supported each other through the hardest moments. Sarah began to realize that she was not defined by her diagnosis. She was a warrior, just like the others in her group.

The Turning Point: Empowered by Community

One evening, Sarah joined a wellness seminar hosted by Mahogany Pattern's Purple Life Charity, a space created to educate and empower people who live with autoimmune diseases. The colloquium offered practical advice about managing symptoms and a sense of community and understanding that was so desperately needed.

It was there that Sarah found the missing piece of her journey—a place to belong truly, and a reminder that she was not alone. The support from the Helping Hands Program provided Sarah with more than just educational materials. She received care packages filled with items that made daily life a little easier and learned about wellness practices like yoga and healthy eating that could ease her symptoms. But perhaps most importantly, she learned how to advocate for herself and others in the autoimmune community.

The Victory: Embracing the Fight

Fast forward to today. Sarah is still living with lupus, but her perspective has shifted. She’s still teaching, and now she shares her journey with her students, using her story to inspire them to overcome their challenges. Her health is managed, and she’s learned to listen to her body, take breaks when needed, and practice self-care without guilt.

Sarah credits much of her resilience to the support she found within the autoimmune community—people who truly understood the battle and were there when she needed them most. She’s now an advocate, using her voice to raise awareness about lupus and other autoimmune diseases, ensuring that others don’t have to face this struggle in silence.

We Are Not Alone

Sarah’s journey may not be unique, but the support and understanding she found is. At Mahogany Pattern's Purple Life Charity, we believe no one should have to fight their battle alone. Whether you are someone living with lupus, arthritis, or any other autoimmune disease, we want you to know that there is a community here for you.

We are warriors, and together, we can face the challenges of autoimmune disease with strength, knowledge, and hope.

Join us today by subscribing to our newsletter, attending our seminars, or simply reaching out to a fellow warrior. You are not alone.

The Power of Friendship in Our Autoimmune Community

Living with an autoimmune disease comes with unique challenges that can feel isolating. The daily battles, flare-ups, and struggles to maintain normalcy often make it easy to feel alone. However, one of the most beautiful parts of our community is the friendships that bloom amidst the hardships. These friendships become not only a source of comfort but a powerful reminder that we are not alone.

Finding Comfort in Shared Experiences

Friendship within the autoimmune community means having people who "get it" without needing an explanation. Whether it’s the shared understanding of a flare-up's impact or the mutual awareness of what foods to avoid, these bonds are built on shared experiences that foster a deep sense of empathy. Friends in this community often become each other's lifelines, providing advice, encouragement, and, sometimes, just a listening ear when it’s most needed.

Growing Through Vulnerability

In our community, opening up about our vulnerabilities is more than just sharing—it’s about healing. During our Tea & Talk sessions, it’s not uncommon to hear members laughing one moment and shedding tears the next. This space allows us to be honest about our struggles and dreams, and we are met with understanding, not judgment. By sharing these stories, we build trust and find strength in one another’s bravery. As friends, we learn to see vulnerability not as a weakness but as the path to greater resilience.

Inspiring Each Other Every Step of the Way

Friendship in the autoimmune community also brings inspiration. Many of us have days when just getting out of bed feels monumental. Seeing others show up and live fully, despite their limitations, becomes a powerful motivator. Each small victory one person achieves serves as a reminder that we are all capable of pushing through our unique battles. When one of us succeeds, it’s a win for all of us.

Building Lasting Bonds

These friendships go beyond the superficial. They become a reminder of our collective strength, offering hope, love, and a sense of belonging. We stand together not just as friends, but as warriors united by shared experiences and determination. In this community, every friendship formed is a promise that no one has to journey through autoimmune life alone.

Our Promise: You Are Not Alone

At Mahogany Pattern's Purple Life Charity, our mission has always been to create a safe space for connection and friendship. We believe that each bond built within our community brings us closer to the goal of making autoimmune life less isolating. Whether it’s through our online forums, Tea & Talk sessions, or simply reaching out to someone who needs a friend, we are here for each other.

Friendship is one of the most powerful tools we have in facing the challenges of autoimmune disease. With each friend we make, we are building a network of strength, resilience, and hope. So here’s to the friendships that carry us through—the ones that remind us every day that, truly, we are not alone.

You Are Not Alone: Building a Community of Strength and Support

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a sense of belonging and genuine support can feel challenging—especially when battling the unseen struggles of autoimmune diseases. At Mahogany Pattern's Purple Life Charity Inc., we know that the path to wellness is not always a smooth one. Yet, it’s one that no one should have to walk alone.

Our mission, symbolized by the warm, glowing purple heart you see in our logo, represents more than just a color or a shape. It embodies love, resilience, and hope for everyone touched by autoimmune conditions. Each interaction, every event, and all of the resources we share are inspired by a simple but profound truth: You Are Not Alone.

This community was born from the belief that even in our toughest moments, we find strength when we come together. Whether it’s a gentle yoga session, a cooking class on wholesome, immune-friendly meals, or a heartfelt 'Tea & Talk' gathering where stories of strength are shared, every moment brings us closer to each other and to healing.

Together, we are crafting an environment where support is not just a word but a constant, tangible presence. The care packages labeled with ‘You Are Not Alone’ are more than gifts—they are reminders that someone out there truly cares, that a community exists where hope is the heartbeat and compassion the foundation.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us, attended our events, or joined us on this journey. By participating, you’re not only helping yourself; you’re empowering others to stand strong. You’re making it possible for our charity to reach more people, to spread awareness, and to say to every warrior out there that they are loved and supported.

Remember, in our community, everyone is welcome, respected, and valued. You don’t have to face your challenges alone, and through Mahogany Pattern’s Purple Life, we are here to stand with you, every step of the way.

Thank you for being a part of our family. Together, we’re stronger.

Overcoming the Loss and Finding Strength Together

Overcoming the Loss and Finding Strength Together"

It’s been over 15 years since I’ve been able to show my hair, and I’d be lying if I said it hasn’t affected my confidence. Hair loss, especially for women, can feel devastating. It's more than just hair; it's tied to our identity, femininity, and self-esteem. I’ve battled not only the physical symptoms of my autoimmune conditions but also the emotional toll—moments of depression, feeling less “me,” and struggling to feel beautiful.

But in this journey, there’s a silver lining. My husband has been my rock, reminding me daily that beauty is not defined by hair. He loves me just as I am, encouraging me to embrace myself, even on the toughest days. His support has been a constant reminder that love and beauty run deeper than appearances.

I’ve found another source of strength in community. Through our support group, I’ve learned that I am not alone in this battle. So many of us face the emotional weight of hair loss, and together, we cope, we share, we uplift. It's not just about finding solutions, but about finding each other. The act of knowing someone understands, of being able to cry or laugh with those who "get it," has helped me rebuild my confidence.

For anyone going through this, I want to remind you that your beauty is not diminished by your struggles. You are not defined by your hair—or the loss of it. And most importantly, you are not alone. There is strength in community, and together, we can learn to cope, to love ourselves, and to celebrate the beauty that lies within.

In Loving Memory of Jacquline Hyter

It is with heavy hearts that we remember Jacquline Hyter, a cornerstone of both our charity and the broader community. Jacquline dedicated her life to serving others, whether through her invaluable work at Mahogany Pattern’s Purple Life Charity INC. or her committed service with the Salvation Army. Her efforts were not just acts of service but profound expressions of her compassionate spirit and unyielding dedication to those in need, especially within the family. Our prayers are with her children grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jaquline's legacy is one of unwavering kindness and relentless advocacy. She taught us the value of community support and the strength found in collective action. She stood as a beacon of hope and a source of comfort to many, always ready with a warm smile and a helping hand.

As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and the countless lives she touched. Jacquline may have left us too soon, but her impact will endure in the hearts of those she helped and inspired. Her commitment to making the world a kinder place will continue to guide us as we carry forward her mission.

We invite all who knew Jacquline to reflect on her profound legacy and to find ways to embody her spirit in their lives. Let us honor her memory by continuing her work with the same passion and dedication she showed every day.

Together We Heal: Join Our Community at Mahogany Patterns Purple Life Charity INC.

Every journey through illness is personal, but no one should have to walk it alone. At Mahogany Patterns Purple Life Charity Inc. (MPPLC), we understand the unique challenges those living with autoimmune diseases face. Inspired by personal experiences and driven by a mission to support, our charity stands as a beacon of hope and help in the autoimmune community.

The Crucial Role of Education and Support

Autoimmune diseases are often invisible in more ways than one, lacking broad understanding and visibility. This is where MPPLC steps in—educating, supporting, and empowering. From detailed seminars that demystify autoimmune conditions to one-on-one consultations that guide us through daily challenges, our holistic approach is heartfelt. As one of our community members shared, "The educational workshops provided me with the knowledge and tools I needed to manage my symptoms and improve my quality of life."

Stories of Empowerment

Meet Brittany Wilson, a vibrant 12-year-old with type 1 diabetes, who not only volunteers with us but will also be making a guest appearance in our upcoming virtual cooking class. Brittany, alongside her mother, Debra Wilson, actively helps pack care packages filled with non-perishables, disinfectants like Lysol, and other autoimmune-friendly items. Debra has also benefited greatly from the resources and education provided by MPPLC, which have helped her keep Brittany’s diabetic diet well-managed. “The support from MPPLC has been a game changer for us, making everyday life and Brittany’s health conditions much more manageable,” says Debra.

In addition to our educational initiatives, we provide tangible support such as clothing and diapers for mothers affected by autoimmune diseases. It’s about more than just medical care; it’s about ensuring dignity and daily comfort.

Get Involved: Every Hand Helps

Whether you are looking to make a difference or seeking support, there's a place for you at MPPLC. Join our upcoming virtual cooking class tailored for autoimmune-friendly diets on January 1, 2025, or participate in our monthly yoga sessions starting this November. Your involvement could be the key to unlocking someone else's cage of isolation.

Join Our Cause

As we continue to grow and support more individuals, we invite you to become part of this vital community. Volunteer, donate, or simply share our story. Together, we are not just survivors; we are warriors. Remember, "You Are Not Alone."

Connect With Us

Visit our website to learn more, sign up for events, or donate. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay updated on our efforts and impact.

Remembering Mamar

In the tapestry of my life, each thread is woven with lessons and love from those who've touched my heart profoundly. Among these treasured influences is my grandmother, lovingly known as Mamar. Her strength was her quiet presence—a beacon of calm in any storm, and her compassion was her superpower, extending to everyone she met.

Mamar taught me the importance of patience and resilience without ever speaking a word about them. Instead, she showed me through her actions, through her unwavering support and her endless kindness. Even on days when my health challenges seem too much to bear, I find solace in memories of her gentle encouragement and her confident assurance that "this too shall pass."

Her legacy is a reminder not just to survive, but to thrive; not just to fight, but to heal and help heal. In honoring her, I strive to embody her strength and compassion as I navigate my own journey and support others through theirs.

Mamar may no longer be with us in person, but her spirit continues to guide and inspire not only me but our entire community. As we share in this journey of living with autoimmune diseases, let's remember to carry forward the legacy of those who have shaped us—with love, with courage, and with the unwavering hope that Mamar taught me to hold in my heart.