About the Enfield Lupus Support Group
My name is Susan John and I am the current Chair of The Enfield Lupus Support Group
Hello and welcome to our website. We are based in North London, Edmonton.
Check out our events page for updates of our activities.
My symptoms of SLE began in 1996 and confirmed in 2000. I have been part of the Enfield Lupus Support Group since 2003 as a group member and later as Committee Secretary. The group was founded by Carlotta Scott who sadly passed away in 2022. On the passing of Carlotta our group Members made it clear just how much Carlotta and the support group meant to us all and agreed that we we will continue her legacy.
For further information about Lupus and other support groups around the UK please contact the National Office of Lupus UK
Article from the Spring 2022 Edition of LUPUS UK's News & Views magazine:
The Enfield Lupus Support Group was founded in 2003 by Carlotta Scott. (pictured right). With the support of family and friends Carlotta formed the group to help those diagnosed with lupus living in her community, as well as their families and friends, by offering support and information. The group, which began with 3 local members, has now grown into 30+ participants from local and surrounding areas. All members are met with a warm, empathetic and enthusiastic welcome – which I experienced myself when I joined their January online meeting.
Unfortunately, in late 2019 ill health meant that Carlotta had to make the difficult decision to step aside from running the group and the reins have been taken up by Susan, Vickey-Ann, Laura and Edie – during a recent chat with Carlotta, she described to me how Susan has done an amazing job throughout the pandemic of keeping in touch with all the group’s members, using her eloquent style of writing to make sure everyone knows that the group is still holding virtual meetings and is there to provide support during these difficult times.
Vickey-Ann is the group’s resident “tech-whizz” and makes sure the online meetings run smoothly – together with Laura who keeps the paperwork in order and Edie who helps out wherever she can – these ladies are the committee who have picked up where Carlotta left off – who wanted us to publicly pass on her thanks on behalf of the group members and herself, as this lovely group have been a huge support to Carlotta personally and she feels that “thanks should be given where it is due”.
In more normal times, the Enfield meetings regularly have speakers and events with advice on health and well-being – and always end with a plate of comforting food, laughter and new friendships formed! Members have the opportunity to discuss their concerns, whether they be about symptoms, medication, hospital treatments or employment issues. The meetings also provide family and friends with a place to meet others who support someone living with lupus.
Throughout the 19 years since Carlotta began the group, it has helped to raise awareness of lupus within the wider community by hosting talks and events, and by participating in community events such as summer fairs, hospital health awareness events, and fundraising opportunities.
We are hoping that the Enfield group will go from strength to strength during 2022 with a revamped website and Facebook page – and they have already welcomed one new member to the group this year.
I’d like to leave the final word to Carlotta, whose simple message to Susan, Vickey-Ann, Laura and Edie is – “Thank you!!”
Alida Horne
LUPUS UK Volunteer Co-Ordinator
Sadly, shortly after this was published in the Lupus UK Spring 22 edition, Carlotta passed away on 28th March 2022
As the founder and driving force of the Enfield Lupus Support Group Carlotta will be very much missed.
As a dear friend to so many of us, her loss is great as she inspired, encouraged and gave strength to each individual she met.
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to her family and close friends.
Together we shall continue to support each other and strive to fullfill the dreams she had for the group.
Rest in Peace
Carlotta Scott
6th April 1956 - 28th March 2022