Fighting an autoimmune condition such as lupus can be isolating and challenging. Grant Road-based rheumatologist Dr Aneesa Kapadia has witnessed this at close quarters. “It’s quite a life-altering condition,” she says. The inflammatory disease, caused when the immune system attacks its own tissues, can damage any part of the body and is more common among women of childbearing age (ages 15 to 44 years). “In the UK, there are support groups for most chronic-illnesses,” says Kapadia, who practised there for a while,  “that are mostly patient-led, with doctor participation being bare minimal.” This made her mull over starting one for lupus as well. “I was hoping patients could have a support group to fall back on or refer to for questions that they necessarily don’t need to turn to the doctor for.” Life with Lupus - Mumbai was launched in May this year, on Instagram as well as WhatsApp. The support and patients advocacy group helps break myths and stigma about lupus. “It makes a world of a difference when a patient reaches out to another,” feels Kapadia.
@lifewithlupus.mum, Instagram

All puffed up

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Think puffer, and spiky, poisonous fish come to mind—but not anymore. There’s a new contender in town. HK Basics’ puffer handbags are light, poufy, and the perfect travel companion during monsoons. Available in three colours (black, silver, and blue), they’re just big enough to fit your phone, wallet, and a few make-up essentials. Got to have a stylish drip without getting wet? These bags have got your back. We also love their puffy messenger bags, ribbed and fluffy and a go-to clutch when you need one. Tis’ the season to be cool and puffy without being puffed-up with water.
Puffer Crossbody Handbag; HKBASICS.COM

For a wider reach

We are loving our new wireless keyboard from HP that we recently purchased for WFH. Typing on laptops can be cumbersome to those used to office PCs. Also, it is vital for those with typing-heavy jobs like ours to not feel restricted by the length and breadth of the keyboard. This HP keyboard is wireless, and connected to our laptop via Bluetooth. At first, we were very circumspect about just how that would work and whether the connectivity would be strong and steady enough. But after a little over a month of use, we are glad to report that typing is a breeze. The keys are tactile and jut out enough to prevent mistyping that happens with those spaced too close together or, those too flat. It runs on AAA batteries and we haven’t had to change one yet. The 4SC12PA (R1,400) came with a mouse.
Amazon

Kurtas for doggos

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If you want your dogs to turn up for your wedding in style, Boof by Bella is the store for you. The brainchild of  twin sisters, Chetna and Chaitalee Abrol, it sells ethnic occasion wear for pets such as sharp tuxedos,  and brightly-coloured kurtas and lehengas. At rakhi, these outfits will make for an adorable family photo-op and if your dog is more family than pet, there are dog-themed rakhis too. In casuals, there are sweatshirts, socks, shoes, onesies, and dresses; and even sweaters inspired by Dior, Gucci and Fendi, perfect for the most posh pets. Of course, do check whether your dog likes wearing them, familiarise them with the process using treats, and check for rashes or discomfort. The least intrusive clothing, with velcros that you can strap on and off, that doesn’t trap heat or odour is what your dog would prefer. After all, this is against their wish and natural life.
www.boofbybella.com