Lupus and Unfair Treatment
Jennifer Dreyer Brown, a woman from California, recently had a distressing experience at a local nail salon. As a lupus sufferer, Jennifer’s trip to Happy Nails in Laguna Niguel left her in tears and feeling ashamed.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes rashes and skin inflammation. Jennifer has discoid lupus, which specifically affects the skin and causes severe rashes, especially when exposed to sunlight. Contrary to some misconceptions, lupus is not contagious, even when it results in visible skin symptoms.
On one of the hottest days of the year, Jennifer decided to treat herself to a manicure and pedicure at the salon. Unfortunately, she was oblivious to the fact that some of the staff were observing and talking about her. She walked in wearing a sundress, not realizing that her skin condition would become an issue.
The Unfortunate Incident
Initially, Jennifer assumed she would have a normal and relaxing pampering session. However, when the time came for her pedicure, she realized that the staff had been gossiping about her. To her surprise, when it was time for her manicure, she was informed that they only had time for a quick polish.
The staff cited her skin condition as the reason, claiming they were unable to provide services for inflamed or broken skin. Despite protesting that she did not have visible scars, Jennifer was denied the service anyway. The experience left her distressed and embarrassed.
Spreading Awareness
In response to the unfair treatment she received, Jennifer took to Facebook to warn others about her experience and raise awareness about lupus. She shared a video narrative of the incident, urging people to be kind to others and consider that they may be going through something challenging, whether it’s visible or not.
Salon’s Response
The salon’s attorney defended the workers, stating that they had followed the guidelines set by the California Board of Cosmetology. The guidelines state that services should not be performed on inflamed or broken skin, or where a skin infection or eruption is present. The attorney emphasized that there was no intention to discriminate against Jennifer and that the workers only wanted to comply with the law.
Moving Forward
Despite being a regular customer, Jennifer has decided never to return to the salon due to her traumatic experience. She hopes that her story will help raise awareness about lupus as a disease and prevent any further discrimination in the future.
Let us remember to treat others with kindness and compassion, for we never know what battles they may be fighting, both on the inside and outside.
