A Letter from the Executive Director

LaTanya Pitts-Lipprand Founder & Executive Director

Happy New Year!

As we step into 2026, I find myself reflecting on the journey that brought us here—and the responsibility we carry moving forward.

Over the past year, Marlene’s Kaleidoscope Foundation has continued to grow not only in reach but in understanding. We have listened closely to the voices of individuals and families living with lupus, and what we heard was clear: the lupus journey is rarely straightforward and rarely singular. Many are navigating overlapping autoimmune conditions, delayed diagnoses, limited access to care, and systems that were never designed to meet complex, long-term needs.

These lived experiences have shaped our path forward.

In 2026, our work is guided by a unifying focus: Beyond One Diagnosis. This reflects a truth our community knows well—that lupus rarely exists alone, and education, care, and support must reflect the full reality of those living with chronic autoimmune disease.

In the year ahead, Marlene’s Kaleidoscope will continue to invest deeply in education that empowers individuals, families, and providers with accurate, accessible information about lupus and overlapping autoimmune conditions. We will stand in the gaps where systems fall short, offering navigation, trusted resources, and community-centered support. And we will strengthen partnerships across our region to expand awareness, access, and coordinated care.

Equally important, we remain committed to telling the whole story. Not just the clinical facts or statistics, but the human experience—the resilience, uncertainty, strength, and hope that coexist in the lives of lupus warriors and their loved ones. These stories matter. They inform our work, guide our advocacy, and remind us why this mission exists.

Our community is at the heart of everything we do. The individuals, families, advocates, partners, and supporters who show up with courage, compassion, and commitment are the true drivers of progress. Your trust and engagement make it possible for Marlene’s Kaleidoscope to continue evolving in ways that honor lived experience and advance meaningful change.

As we move forward, I am filled with gratitude and purpose. Together, we are building a future where people living with lupus and autoimmune disease are seen, supported, and understood in their full reality.

Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to all that we will continue to build—together.

With gratitude and resolve,

LaTanya Pitts-Lipprand

Founder & Executive Director

Marlene’s Kaleidoscope Foundation