A Candid Conversation on Strength, Self-Discovery, and Spreading Lupus Awareness

Last week, I had the honor of speaking with Cori Broadus who is an entrepreneur, advocate, and daughter of the legendary artist Snoop Dogg. We had a heartfelt Instagram Live conversation in recognition of Lupus Awareness Month. Cori has been courageously living with lupus and during our time together, she offered an unfiltered look into her journey, her healing, and how she continues to navigate life as a creative, mom, daughter and more while managing a chronic illness. Her transparency, strength, and unwavering authenticity were deeply felt, and it’s a conversation that left many inspired. In this follow-up interview, Cori shares even more insight into her experiences, mindset, and message for others walking a similar path.

TG: Can you share your diagnosis story and how it shifted your day-to-day life?

CB: I used to go to San Diego every year with my family for my birthday and it was this one year we went, I started breaking out on my face. I got a really bad rash and my hair was falling out. I was in so much pain. My family and I were so confused at what was going on. I had a Yorkie named Coco at the time and we thought I may have been allergic to her. I know this sounds crazy, but we even considered the ocean water at the resort we used to go to every year as a potential cause to what was going on. We went to several doctors for multiple opinions and were told that it was either lupus or cancer. We then later found out that it was lupus. 

TG: What misconceptions do you wish more people understood about living with lupus?

CB : People think lupus is just fatigue or joint pain, but it’s so much more. My body can hurt intensely at the end of the day, even if I haven’t done anything. I’m only 25, but some days I feel like I’m 80 years old. My appearance constantly changes, my weight goes up and down, and the truth is I never really feel “okay.” Lupus affects everything not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too.

TG: How have you found strength or purpose amid this health journey?

CB: I truly believe God doesn’t make mistakes and everything happens for a reason. I go through what I go through because He wants to show up and show out in my life. And when He does, I make sure to tell the world about it.

TG: How do you live a whole life without letting lupus define you or disrupt your daily rhythm?  

CB: By the Grace of God, that’s all I can say. I look back at everything I’ve been through in this lifetime and ask myself, “Cori, how did you get through all of this?” It’s nothing but God!

TG: Being diagnosed at a younger age can feel isolating. How did you find support, and what would you say to young women navigating lupus in silence?

CB: I was blessed with a strong village that helped me accept that this is my reality, and there are still ways to make life worth living. Don’t be silent about it. Speaking to the right person may be what you genuinely need to keep you going, and not be sad or discouraged about your new way of life.

TG: What coping mechanisms, whether spiritual, creative, or community-based, have helped you stay grounded and hopeful during flare-ups or hard seasons?

CB: God FIRST, being around family/friends, and doing things that make you HAPPY! Whatever that maybe for you. I started a book club with my sister, Itali Miller, called “The Chocolate Book Club.” We aim to read self-healing books and heal together. Also, my cosmetic line “Choc Factory” with my partner Wayne has assisted me in my journey. We wanted to create a safe space where women can authentically be themselves. The story’s moral is that I’m all about the community and trying to do different things to help make this world a better place before it’s my time to go. 

TG: What advice would you give to women who have just been diagnosed or feel overwhelmed?

CB: Some days, I wish I had the perfect words to explain it because every day truly is a struggle. But all we can do is take it one step at a time, lean on our faith, and trust that God’s plan for our lives is greater than anything we’re facing.

Cori Broadus is more than her diagnosis . She’s a force, a voice, and a light for those walking a similar path. Her honesty and strength are reminders that lupus isn’t just a May awareness moment , it’s a daily journey, 365 days a year. As we continue to uplift stories like Cori’s, let’s also commit to supporting lupus warriors through action, education, and advocacy. Whether it’s sharing their stories, spreading awareness, or donating to lupus organizations, every effort matters. Be sure to follow Cori, support her brand, and tap into her journey because this conversation doesn’t end here.

Visit Cori’s social platforms and website. They are listed below:

Choc Factory: www.chocfactory.com

Cori’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/princessbroadus