Shamekka Marty | Patient Advocate
National Minority Health Association

Shamekka Marty is a Cybersecurity Project Management Consultant, Foundation Director, and board member of several charitable organizations. She is a dedicated wife, mother of three, Lupus survivor, and mentor, whose advocacy has touched many lives across the globe. Her caregiving journey began at the age of 10, when she cared for her Nana, who battled severe Rheumatoid Arthritis, and her mother, who lived with Lupus. Following the passing of her family members, Shamekka continued as a caregiver to her uncle, who had HIV. At 30, she was diagnosed with Lupus herself, but instead of succumbing to the challenges, she chose to use her experience to help others. Today, Shamekka balances her personal health struggles with her role as a vocal advocate for patients with chronic and rare diseases. Her health challenges include overlapping autoimmune conditions such as Raynaud's, Vasculitis, and Lupus Nephritis, which led to her kidney transplant in 2023. Despite these hurdles, she has earned a Bachelor's Degree and works as an IT professional, while mentoring patients worldwide. Shamekka has partnered with major pharmaceutical companies like GSK, AstraZeneca, and Janssen, and she is a regular feature on platforms such as Lupus.net, Wego Health, Refinery 29, and more. She is also a recognized influencer in the Lupus and chronic illness community and has authored a book titled "Life is Beautiful." In 2024, Shamekka became an ambassador for the Health is for EveryBODY campaign.