Meet Alicia Roufs, @minnesotavitfriends Chapter Leader!

ABOUT HER VITILIGO SUPPORT GROUP

Minnesota VITFriends was founded in June of 2014, and currently has 273 members. The group has small meetings about 4 times a year. Alicia reflects on her chapter’s accomplishments by sharing, “We have been able to campaign on Capitol Hill and were able to obtain signatures for a national vitiligo bill to be submitted to Congress. We have appeared on Fox 9 news, Twin Cities Live, and local publications. Our city was selected to host the national World Vitiligo Day in 2020, now postponed in person until 2022.”

THE POWER OF SUPPORT:

VitFriends members get so much from being involved. In Alicia’s words, “Vitiligo can be very isolating. Having people to connect with that look just like you can be life-changing. So many of our members have never met anyone with vitiligo. You become an instant family!”

ONE THING SHE’D LIKE PEOPLE LIVING WITH VITILIGO TO KNOW:

“You are NOT alone!”
With regard to adaptations made necessary due to COVID-19, Alicia explains, “Our group has been able to host a few video conference calls to stay connected. We rely heavily on social media to stay connected with our members.”

SOMETHING FUN AND INTERESTING ABOUT ALICIA:

“In 2016 I was able to share my vitiligo journey when I was asked to give a speech at the United States Capitol. I am married to the best husband ever and have a beautiful son, a dog and a cat. We love working on our 115-year old home. I believe that laughter is truly the best medicine.”