The Purple Lillie Foundation was founded in March 2023 by Jackie Broadway-Duren, PhD, DNP, FNP-BC. Dr. Broadway-Duren is a native of Monroe, LA who was later recruited and relocated to Houston, TX by the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2001. During her employment at MD Anderson Dr. Broadway-Duren encountered many Leukemia patients who also had underlying or concurrent autoimmune disease. In addition, after having gone through the process of observing family members endure the debilitating effects of autoimmune disease, Dr. Broadway-Duren decided to pursue research in SLE and sarcoidosis during her doctoral education. The results of the research and review of the literature revealed the devastating effects of SLE where those affected experienced severe debilitating organ system damage, and in some cases resulted in mortality of some individuals. 

 

Subsequently, the Purple Lillie Foundation was formed to facilitate community education about autoimmune disorders through support groups, educational forums, community research, and to promote advocacy for policy changes. The ultimate goal of this organization is to improve outcomes of those affected by debilitating autoimmune diseases.