Lupus Research Institute Congratulates Leslie Hunt for American Idol Advance  2/26/07

Lupus Research Institute Chicago Congratulates Leslie Hunt, American Idol Top 10 Female Finalist Living with Lupus

CHICAGO /PRNewswire/ -- The Lupus Research Institute Chicago congratulates Chicago's own Leslie Hunt on moving to the next round as one of the top 10 women (and top 20 contestants) on the popular reality talent show "American Idol." In her show profile, Hunt describes her toughest obstacle as "living my life with lupus."

Lupus is a chronic and potentially fatal disease in which the body's immune system turns on itself. More than 1.5 million Americans have the disease, and 90 percent are female. Leslie was diagnosed when she was just 7 years old.

"As an organization dedicated to finding new approaches to fighting lupus, we are proud of Leslie's success to date on 'American Idol' and applaud her strength and commitment as she works through the rigorous elements of the competition," said Darby Tio, executive director of Lupus Research Institute Chicago. "Lupus is such a difficult illness, and so many young women, thousands of them right here in our area, struggle with it every day."

The Lupus Research Institute Chicago and its lead organization, the Lupus Research Institute, champion and fund new science -- the truly innovative research that will prevent, treat and cure lupus. The Institute currently has $1.2 million invested in promising Chicago-based lupus research.

Hunt, 24, is a 2000 graduate of St. Charles High School. "We wish Leslie continued success as we continue our search for better treatments and a cure," Tio said.

About the Lupus Research Institute Chicago Lupus Research Institute Chicago was founded by prominent members of the Chicago lupus community with the goal of increasing awareness of the disease and promoting novel research into its cause and a cure. As part of this effort, it champions the excellent work of lupus researchers locally and nationwide.

SOURCE Lupus Research Institute Chicago