NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Chastity Corbett said she has fond memories of pledging Delta Sigma Theta, Inc., including one of her sorority line sisters referring to her as a social butterfly.
The following year, Corbett was diagnosed with lupus. The chronic autoimmune disease can cause inflammation and damage in various parts of the body.
"I have a war going on inside my body at all times," Corbett said. "So, I may smile, but inside, I'm in pain."
Corbett eventually launched Social Butterflies Foundation. The nonprofit supports people living with lupus as well as fibromyalgia-- a muscle and soft tissue disorder that causes chronic muscle pain, tenderness, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
She said the name of the group is not only a reflection of her personality but a representation of lupus survivors.
"The butterfly is related to lupus because of the butterfly mask, like a dark mask, that a lot of people usually have," Corbett said.
The foundation also works to raise awareness of chronic conditions, including spearheading a campaign to establish the first specialty license plate for lupus and fibro with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. If 450 pre-orders are submitted and the plate becomes a reality, $15.00 per plate will be donated back to Social Butterflies.
Corbett said the lack of knowledge in the community about lupus and fibro further alienates survivors.
"People don't understand," Corbett said. "They'll say, 'You don't look sick.' What does sick look like?"
Shawanda Robinson, a lupus survivor and member of Social Butterflies, agreed that the illness can be both challenging and isolating. She expressed appreciation for the support she has received from the nonprofit.
"I need to be a part of this because, I mean, this is going directly to help me," Robinson said, "and having a family that will, you know, just help you through these times when you need it."
The foundation doesn't just provide emotional support through groups. There are several programs and services that are free to survivors and their families.
College scholarships are available to students pursuing higher education. Emergency financial assistance provides temporary relief in unexpected circumstances. The group is also hosting a summit and health fair on May 18 at Sentara Careplex in Hampton to share resources and information with the community.
There are two outreach programs-- one that provides access to wigs for people experiencing hair loss and another that supports and encourages members during challenging times.
One of the foundation's largest events is the Butterfly Walk for Lupus and Fibro. The next fundraiser is on August 3 at Boo Williams Sportsplex in Hampton. It will be the first indoor walk Social Butterflies has held.
Corbett believes gatherings and connections are critical for lupus and fibro survivors who feel unseen.
"We definitely just want to inspire and uplift everyone and let them know they're not alone," Corbett said.
Charlene Williams, another lupus survivor and member of Social Butterflies, said the group's efforts are working for her.
"I didn't understand what was going on with my body... The fatigue is like none other," Williams said. "I do participate mostly in all of the activities, because that's where I get my strength from."
Corbett hopes the community will join survivors in learning more about lupus and fibro.
"Someone in your family or a close friend can be affected by these two illnesses," Corbett said. "And we want to make them visible, but we also want to make sure that our thrivers and their families are taken care of as well."
Social Butterflies Foundation is looking for new board members. Email Board Secretary Rabbina Banks at binabanks@socialbutterfliesfoundation.org for more information.
The organization also needs more volunteers for several committees. If you're interested, click here to sign up.
You can also support by shopping apparel and merchandise on the nonprofit's website, and following the group on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
You can support Social Butterflies and more than 200 other local nonprofits for Give Local 757 Day, which is the largest single-day fundraising event in Hampton Roads.
In 2023, people across the region raised more than $1.8 million for local organizations. Click here for a list of groups you can support this year.