We had the good fortune of connecting with ROSADELA DURRUTHY and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi ROSADELA, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I am born and raised in San Diego, California from the Paradise Hills community. My parents are both immigrants to America and I strongly believe that the work ethic they displayed to not only come to a foreign country but succeed as home and business owners has given me the perseverance to push through a chronic illness and domestic violence marriage, and rise above statistics. I grew up watching my uncle Pedro battle the ugly side of lupus and wanting to be his nurse and caretaker helps me have empathy for others experiencing battles within themselves.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think my honesty about who I am and what I have experienced is what sets me apart from others. I have been at points in life so low I thought I would not make it through to the next day. When I lost my uncle to lupus complications from COVID and then my dad to prostate cancer not even a year later, the pain of those losses gave me a drive to succeed professionally with my non-profit. I had to make it work for them. It has not been easy, but what I believed were road blocks in my path only gave me clarity to what I need to work on to break through barriers. I was a married woman living in fear of my husband and submissive. I was sick with 3 children to take care of and being as independent and starting a business was not even a thought I believed for myself. I’ve learned to advocate for myself, and believe in myself. I want the world to know my struggles with mental health and living with lupus not for pity but to know the strength in my testimony, it is possible for you can take back your power and change your narrative. I offer coaching sessions to help others realize their power and reach their full capabilities.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My best friend lives in Oakland so I will share what we typically do. I am not into the club or party scene anymore so it may seem boring to some. We have to visit Tacos El Gordo in Chula Vista and order street tacos, Tijuana style. A trip to the La Jolla tidepools, Wind N Sea beach, Del Mar dog beach, and Pacific Beach are going to be on the agenda. A hike at Hollenbeck Canyon in Jamul to see the beautiful scenery and a trip to the top of Mount Soledad for the views. One day at Sea World for the rides and aquariums and feed a dolphin. Another trip for tacos but this time to Tacos El Prieto taco truck on Main Street in Chula Vista for a quesabirria taco, if you have never heard of a quesabirria taco do yourself a favor and Google it. Clearly I love food.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My story definitely begins with the gentle push of friend and Founder of Hooper Mentality, Patty Medina. If it wasn’t for her recognizing the power in my story, I believe I would still be struggling to find my voice in the community. The love and support I was given by my partner Chris Smith has empowered me to believe in myself, believe in my worth and believe that I am capable to start the non-profit organization. My parents deserve all the recognition for being my support system when I couldn’t even support myself. The love my kids have given me is all the motivation I need to push through on hard days.

Website: www.ShesGotLupus.com

Instagram: instagram.com/shesgotlupus

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosadela-durruthy/

Twitter: twitter.com/shesgotlupus

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shesgotlupus

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx9ShwheMw-v1JZlSAV0TlA

Other: linkfol.io/shesgotlupus

Image Credits
Christopher Smith

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.