October 22, 2010

ST CLAIR SHORES, Mich., Oct. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- October is World Lupus Month and Frito-Lay has made it one to remember for Michelle 'Mickey' Wynn, a Lupus Alliance of America Michigan/Indiana Affiliate member.  With the threat of eviction looming if Mickey's house did not receive much needed repairs, Frito-Lay rallied its employees and local businesses for a "Motown Makeover" to completely renovate the Lupus survivor's home.

"When city officials told me I would be evicted from my home if I did not get my roof repaired, I was simply overwhelmed and defeated," said Mickey. "Living with Lupus, I had no money, and no other foreseeable options for assistance. Homelessness was a real possibility for me. But then I got a call from the Lupus Alliance and Frito-Lay, and I knew my prayers were answered."

"Frito-Lay heard about Mickey's situation and knew that if we partnered with the community, we could save her home, and give her the peace of mind to allow her to focus on staying well and defeating Lupus," said Fred Gongola, Motown metro market director, Frito-Lay North America. "Frito-Lay is excited to participate in this 'Motown Makeover'. We are grateful for our associates' eagerness to volunteer and the generous donations from each of our community partners."

Mickey, who lives in St. Clair Shores, has received a new roof, HVAC system, carpeting, a first-floor laundry room, painting, appliances and more with the help of more than 150 Frito-Lay associates throughout the Detroit area and several community partners. Wimsatt Building Materials, Jim Hademark Construction and Mission Carpentry are providing the new roof. Sam's Club, Wal-Mart, Skaff Furniture Carpet One Floor & Home, All-American Electric, W.K. Construction, Hahn Paint Company and other local businesses are also lending a hand to the project. Detroit Piston Chris Wilcox also has made a financial donation to the Motown Makeover.

About Lupus Alliance of America Michigan/Indiana Affiliate

The Lupus Alliance of America Michigan Indiana Affiliate's mission is to educate health care providers, promote early detection, alleviate suffering for those diagnosed with lupus and eradicate the disease. The Lupus Alliance is a self-supporting 501 c 3 non-profit organization. For more information contact The Lupus Alliance office at (800) 705-6677 or online at www.milupus.org.

SOURCE Lupus Alliance of America