We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Emmitt Henderson III. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Emmitt below.

Emmitt, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

A defining moment for me was accepting the fact that because of a LUPUS related symptom, my career in the automotive industry had to end. I decided to advocate for Lupus and Mens mental health. This was how I got through it all in the past 27yrs and now I’m here to tell my story to inspire others. I want to encourage others to be strong through their illness and that they can get through it.

Emmitt, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As a male of color, diagnosed with lupus in 1995 seem to be rare. I decided to be the voice representing males with illnesses and having a strong mental health. I want to let men know that it is OK to not be OK at times and for us to open up about our hardships, is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength. I’m most proud of representing men who are not afraid of speaking up about their truths and want everyone to know that we have the disease and our disease does not have us.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

My resilience is proven from the times I bounced back from major illness complications. My parents were told I wasn’t going to make it when I experienced heart failure but I bounced back very quickly. Despite a shoulder and knee replacement, I’m still able to work out in the weight room and do physical activities. After two transplants, I’m feeling strong as ever and energy level is high. For some people, it’s hard to believe I went through so much and still be as active as I am today.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

What’s most effective for me is telling my story of survival and encouraging others that they do not have to be a victim to their illness. When my story is told, the transparency that I share with others seems to help them get through their worst. People need hope and after everything I survived, I’m proof that there is hope

Contact Info:

• Website: www.malelupuswarriors.org
• Instagram: @malelupiswarriors
• Facebook: @emmitthendersoniii
• Linkedin: @malelupiswarriors
• Twitter: @mlweh3

Image Credits
Emmitt Henderson III