LaShonda Ellis, who lives in New Jersey, was diagnosed with systemic lupus nephritis in 1997, at the age of 14. This chronic, autoimmune disease has affected multiple body systems causing complications with everything from her blood to her esophagus. Before her disease progression caused an early retirement, she spent many years working in the financial industry as a hedge fund analyst. Currently, she works as a business manager for a social justice organization, as founder of a nonprofit, and serves as treasurer for two additional nonprofit organizations. Serving and supporting marginalized populations has always been key drivers for her through volunteerism and philanthropic activities. During her limited free time, she enjoys spending time with family, baking, shopping, and creative projects.
PAN is an organization that has helped me and cares about people going through things. I feel honored to have this opportunity to serve on the Patient and Family Advisory Council in an effort to help others.”