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The following article was published in Lupus Uk's News & Views magazine,Winter 2018 edition. I've posted it on my website because this particular article talks about my 10 milestone, my journey with Lupus. "Hi its Katty again and I hope you’ve had a chance to visit kattysterritory.com, and continue to be part of my journey. Its been great that Lupus UK have allowed me to share some of my experiences with readers, and as a young person with Lupus I hope that others with JLSE (Juvenile onset Lupus) can relate to it. This year marks my 10 year anniversary since being diagnosed with Lupus. It has been an unpredictable experience with highs and lows that have affected both my physical and mental health. At 9 years old it was a challenge to understand the hospital appointments, blood test, examinations and drastic weight gain due to steroids . I would love to say that over the past 10 years it has got easier ( I don’t think it does), but you learn to manage and try to be in control of the things you can. Professor Beresford wrote a chapter on JSLE in ‘Lupus a guide for practioners’, and said that JLSE can not be managed the same as Lupus in adults. Mainly due to the length of time we have to manage the disease, but also because may of us have not yet established the ability and skills to deal with this challenging illness. This was certainly my initial experience as I remember sitting in an overwhelming adult clinic when I had flares and understanding very little. This was until my care became shared with GOSH, and people started asking me what I wanted. I remember being given liquid Naproxen for pain daily and how disgusting this was, until one day Dr Pilkington at GOSH gave me the option to try the tablet form. This simple option gave me a choice I didn’t know I had, and medicine taking became less stressful! My life like many young people managing long term illnesses hasn’t always gone to plan, due to flares ups, chronic fatigue, missing significant periods from school and feeling disengaged from my friends who didn’t always understand this ‘invisible illness’. But what I have discovered about myself and seen in many other young people, is the drive to be significant and make a difference. Yes there are days when you want to remain in bed a feel sorry for yourself, that’s ok, because there are days when you can make a difference to your life and the lives of others…no matter how small. Not every young persons journey is the same whether it is to pursue higher/ further education or to seek employment in some shape or form. But its so important not to compare yourself to others (easier said than done when the media constantly projects images and expectations), but like Lupus there are some commonalities but our reactions to some situations are unique to us! Katty’s Territory promotes young people having a voice, choice, and “marking your territory”. In the transition from children to young adult services it has been important to become more involved. It also been important to remember the people around me that can also enable this to happen, and make the experience less of a challenge. My mum has always been there to support me through my journey with Lupus and the specialist nurses make a big difference. Nicola Daly a nurse at UCLH (University College London Hospital) has been with me from GOSH to UCLH adolescent to UCLH young adults services, she makes complex questions and task easier to understand, and provides a bit more space than in the doctor led clinics. Lupus UK and has been key to me and my mum in gaining information and support about a disease we knew so little about, and is now a platform to share experiences and gain information. Also gaining lifelong friends like Jane Dunnage (the previous Chair of Lupus UK) who selflessly shares her knowledge of experiences of Lupus, and who was the first to visit me and dispel the myths and discuss the facts of the illness. I’m not sure what the future holds but I know being able to be an ambassador and advocate for Lupus and young people has its own rewards. Being part of the Patient Participation and Involvement programs locally and nationally, and working with other young people with a similar passion is a great start. #2018 #LUPUS #MAGAZINEARTICLE #LUPUSUK #KATTY #LIFE

In September I was invited to the Cochrane Conference in Edinburgh, Scotland by the lovely Dr Erin Walker ( Patient Insight and involvement Lead for UCLpartner's ). The conference was themed, " Better evidence for better health decisions", and was a patient included event along with researchers from around the world. I was invited to talk and co present the findings of a study I had previously worked on, it was about,"involving children and young people in the creation and dissemination of products for complex evidence synthesis of inventions to improve the mental health of children and young people with longterm conditions". Erin and a team of researcher from Exeter university led by Dr Jo Thompson-Coon, set up a research advisory group to be apart of the study, it was made up of 8 children and young people (including me), with neurological and rheumatological conditions. We had 4 meetings discussing different topics about our mental health experiences. During the last 2 meetings parents were invited to share their thoughts on the different topics. At the very last meeting we recorded a podcast to summerise what had been discussed. I flew to Edinburgh with Erin and my mum, to present the research and enjoy 3 days at the conference, and listen to various presentations, and taking part in workshops. It was also a great opportunity to talk about Lupus and kattysterritory.com my website. it was also great sightseeing in beautiful windy Scotland. The conference really helped me understand the world and thought process of researchers and the need for patient involvement (especially young patients). The main focus of our trip was to prepare and present our findings of the study of the study through a 15 minute presentation, Erin and I spent time in London and in Edinburgh perfecting our presentation with pictures and clips from the podcast we did at the end or the study. The conclusion was that there needed to be more UK based research Our presentation went very well and I was confident that we got our information across and I hope that I was able to represent young people in the best way. Erin and I also recorded a podcast at the conference disscussing involving young people in research. I had an incredible time I thoroughly enjoyed the conference and exploring Scotland, I want to thank Erin and Jo especially for the amazing opportunity I am very grateful. #2018 #KATTY #LIFE #ADVOCACY

Somebody told me - Charie Puth Kings Dead - James Blake, Jay Rock, Future, Kendrick Lamar Malamente - Rosalia Meet you there - 5SOS Lost in Japan - Shawn Mendes God is a woman - Ariana Grande Nonstop - Drake I'm a mess - Bebe Rexha Retrograde - James Blake Privilege - The Weeknd Karate - Anne Marie Barbie Dreams - Nicki Minaj APESH*T - The Carters Tip Toe - Jason Derulo ft French Montana Clap Your hands - Sia Top Artist & Album - Voice Notes - Charlie Puth

I recently had the opportunity to write an article for the RARE Revolution Magazine. Click below to find out more. LINK TO FULL ARTICLE #2018 #LUPUS #MAGAZINEARTICLE #KATTY

I have picked 20 songs from my Spotify generated playlist 'Your Top Songs 2017' which consists of my most played songs of 2017. These are all song I’ve enjoyed and played to death during the year New Rules - Dua Lipa Might Not - Belly & The Weeknd Find You - Nick Jonas Back to You - Tom & Bebe Rexha Issues - Julia Michaels Remember I Told You - Nick Jonas, Anne Marie & Mike Posner Havana - Camila Cabello Games - Demi Lovato Bad Reputation (Live) - Shawn Mendes Swish Swish - Katy Perry & Nicki Minaj Angel - Fifth Harmony Passionfruit - Drake Dusk til Dawn - Zayn & Sia If I’m Lucky - Jason Derulo Dead - Madison Beer Attention - Charlie Puth Last Dance - Dua Lipa Swalla - Jason Derulo, Ty Dollar $ign & Nicki Minaj Run Me Dry - Bryson Tiller Wild Thoughts Dj Khaled, Rihanna & Bryson Tiller FAVE ARTIST/ALBUM OF THE YEAR SZA - CTRL #2017 #MUSIC #SZA #BRYSONTILLER #FANGIRL #SHAWNMENDES

HAMMERSMITH EVENTIM APOLLO - 27 NOVEMBER 2017 On the 27th of November 2017 me and my bestie Marie wen to see Bryson Tiller at the Eventim Apollo. Me and Marie have been waiting to see Bryson again since we last saw him in March 2017 on the Legend of the Fall Tour with The Weeknd. So when the day game we ready and excited. The first opening act was an upcoming artist from Manchester who was very energetic. The second opening act was SZA, she blew me away. I was so impressed by her performance that as soon as the concert was over I listened to her album for weeks and made her my fave artist for 2017. I highly recommend her music. Despite seeing Bryson earlier in the year I was extremely excited to see him and so was Marie (She LOVES him). Bryson’s Performance was amazing, he sang my favourite songs and topped it off by being jumped on by a fan before exiting the stage Overall it was amazing from discover SZA and Bryson Keeping ‘Rambo’(my fave) on the set list. It was memorable night. #2017 #MUSIC #BRYSONTILLER #FANGIRL #CONCERTS #FANGIRLING #MARINA #SZA

O2 BRIXTON ACDEMY - 6 NOVMBER 2017 On the 6th of November me and my bestie Marie went to see Dua Lipa at The O2 Brixton Academy. This was the first concert we’ve attended that we’ve had standing tickets. Despite being very anxious about the new experience, we were able to get right to the front. The opening act was a lovely girl whose name I cant remember but she was very talented. Dua’s performance was incredible, she was so energetic and her voice was perfect. She performed my favourite song of hers 'Last Dance' which I wasn't expecting. Overall it was an amazing night although me and Marie were very tired after the multiple hours of standing. But it was definitely one of the top 5 concerts I've been to. #DUALIPA #2017 #MUSIC #FANGIRL #MARINA #CONCERTS #FANGIRLING

O2 ARENA - 1 JUNE 2017 On June 1st 2017 Me and my bestie Marie attended Shawn Mendes's Illuminate World Tour at the O2 Arena(The first illuminate show at the O2). We always arrive at the venue a few hours before doors open, so we can beat traffic. As we were wondering around the the O2 we spotted Shawns mum. After a long debate we went over and Shawn's family welcomed us with open arms, and I received a big hug from his aunt who was so welcoming and seemed just as excited to meet us and take a picture. After being introduced to the rest of his family that were there, we then met his mum and took a picture with her, who was so lovely. The whole experience of meeting his family was very random and all happened so quickly but they were all very funny and kind. At 6pm we went to O2 Priority and waited half an hour to enter the arena. At 7:30 James TW came on and he was a lot better than I had expected and his performance was very enjoyable (But i'm a little disappointed that Chalie Puth wasn't the opening act for our show).Shawn started at 8:30 and the opening was incredible, I didn't really know what to expect despite seeing him live before but i was blown away. Shawn was amazing, his vocals were incredible and his guitar and piano playing were amazing. I especially enjoyed the huge 'moon' it was absolutely beautiful and his band were so talented. The Illuminate Tour overall was spectacular and the visuals were one of the highlights the night along with his amazing performance of 'Bad Reputation' (Shawn tripping twice was also a highlight). I thoroughly enjoyed the entire day from meeting his family and the amazing performance. #2017 #MUSIC #MARINA #FANGIRL #FANGIRLING #SHAWNMENDES #THEO2 #JAMESTW

My journey with Lupus began when I was nine, I had on-going symptoms and after months of medical testing i was diagnosed with Juvenile Lupus (JSLE). Once I was diagnosed I instantly went onto various medications to help stabilise my Lupus and I was eventually was referred to GOSH (Great Ormond Street Hospital) for further more intense medical treatment. During the time of being diagnosed and treated I was missing weeks/months of school and had lost contact with most of my friends. From the ages of 9-11 I was trying to rejoin school while dealing with all my medical issues, which resulted in me being homeschooled. From the ages of 11-16 when my Lupus was a little more stable I tried to go to secondary school which again inevitably ended in me being homeschooled and only being able to study for my GCSEs for a few months before the exams. A lot of the failure in rejoining school was due to not handling or coping with my Lupus and everything that came with it. The adults around me at that time weren't very understanding and I was left to handle most situations on my own, which was the start of my aniexty problems which effected the whole process. At the age of 16 my Lupus was stable and i was started to gain more control over my life and I wanted to try college. I naively thought it would be as easy as that but it was a challenge. College was just as complicated as school because even though I had more support from adults surrounding me the teachers and the school weren't prepared to handle my anxiety or illness. After months of constant attempts and seeking other options I quickly decided that the only way to be success full in my life was to think outside the box, and that's how Katty's Territory was created. After nine years I think I have accepted to some degree the unpredictability of Lupus and the impact it can have and has had on my life. Even though it has left me with mental and physical scars I am now making the most of my life. Over the years I have had highs and lows, some due to Lupus, and some my mum says are because I'm a teenager. But I hope my journey will enable me to positively advocate for other young people like me. #LUPUS #KATTY #LIFE

source FAVE SONGS OF 2016 These have been picked from my Spotify generated playlist 'Your Top Songs 2016' which is my most played songs of 2016. I've selected 15 songs from the playlist that I enjoyed and loved the most in 2016. In The Name Of Love - Martin Garrix, Bebe Rexha This was a go to song for me in 2016 and made me want to discover a bit more about Bebe Rexha. The Real - Jacob Latimore,IshDarr 'The Real' is one of the singles from Jacobs debut album 'Connection'. The song contains a feature from IshDarr and the song is definitely one of my faves off the album. Work From Home - Fifth Harmony Fifth Harmony definitely supply songs for me and my best friend Marie to scream along to and work from home is no different. But the loss in the band may effect any future song like this one. All Day - Trevor Jackson, Mystikal Trevors Album is incredible and 'All Day' has to be my favourite and Mystikals rap is pure gold. Pink + White - Frank Ocean This song is definitely a classic Frank Ocean song and the smooth melody makes it one of my fave songs from his album 'Blonde'. NO - Meghan Trainor 'NO' has strong 90's vibes to it and the catchy chorus made it one of my fave songs of 2016. Heathens - Twenty One Pilots 'Heathens' has to be one of my ultimate faves of 2016, and it has increased my love for Twenty One Pilots. Company - Justin Beiber Justin's album 'Purpose' is filled with amazing songs but 'company' has to be one of my favourite off the album. Too Good - Drake, Rihanna Drake and Rihanna together are always a good choice and this song is testament to that. Greedy - Ariana Grande I throughly enjoyed all of Ariana's songs on the Album 'Dangerous Woman' but Greedy is definitely at the top of the list. Stone Cold - Demi Lovato I love this song and Demi's vocals are absolutely incredible, you can not deny her talent when you listen to this song. Cheap Thrills - Sia, Sean Paul I'm a huge Sia fan and I'm a huge Sean Paul fan so this song is like a match made in heaven for me. Sledgehammer (From the motion picture 'Star Trek Beyond') - Rihanna When I first this song I fell absolutely in love with it. Something about the melody and Rihanna's singing just makes this song amazing. Treat You Better - Shawn Mendes Besides this Song being Played every where I love it and having been able to see it performed live multiple times makes me love it even more. Hymm For The Weekend - Coldplay, Beyoncé This song was my summer anthem and I probably over played it in 2016 but I really love this song. FAVE ALBUM OF 2016 source Beyonce - Lemonade The reason this album is my favourite of the year is pretty self explanatory. Beyonce is a formidable artist and this album conveys that. Every Song is amazing and the Lemonade film is extraordinary. I don't think any album that was released in 2016 can compare. #SHAWNMENDES #JACOBLATIMORE #DRAKE #MUSIC

Meet Kandy Kane Brooks also called Kan Kan and Kanstopher (like Christopher) He is a half Maine Coon cat, he is three years old and has a sister named Krispy. He has very long lightweight fur that he finds very hard to clean and often gets fur stuck in his tongue (ew). His favourite food is chicken stir fry and he doesn't like seafood and he can only eat food once he has picked it up in his paw. He enjoys chasing the sunlight that comes through the blinds and his red laser toy. He loves going into the garden and chasing water from a water gun, yes he is obsessed with water! He prefers sleeping in direct sunlight or in one of his many cardboard boxes. For attention he will carry around his red plush toy and meow or lick carrier bags. When he is bored he tends to play fight with Krispy, but he always ends up being too aggressive and gets told off and meows for forgiveness. Kandy is a very independent cat and doesn't require much human interaction, although when he wants a hug or to play he can become very annoying and clingy... which can get very annoying as he sheds loads of long fur. #CATS #FELINE #KANDY

Meet Krispy Kreme Brooks Also known as Krisp and Krisptopher (like Christopher) She is a half Maine Coon cat, she is three years old and has a brother named Kandy. She has very thick and slick black fur that feels absolutely lovely. she has a very timid and anxious personality and only comes out of her hiding places when people she loves are around. She's a bit of a baby and is very needy and enjoys sitting next to loved ones and using them as a head rest. She also like sleeping on beds and sofas but she has to have a pillow or cushion to rest her head on. Her favourite food is bread and pastries and she always has to fight with her brother to get to her food bowl. She is completely obsessed with pipe cleaners and she enjoy carrying them in her mouth and hiding them everywhere She also enjoys fetching and catching them. Krispy and Kandy often team up to do things they know are bad such as teaming up to open my sliding wardrobe. Krispy is a very dependant cat enjoys being cuddled and always want to have human contact. She is alway content if she is lying next to me. #FELINE #CATS #KRISPY