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The National Lupus Disability Relief Effort
In memory of the life and legacy of Gina P. Wingell,
Gina P. Wingell Foundation: Supporting Families Impacted by Lupus
The Gina P. Wingell Foundation is committed to preserving the dignity of families affected by severe disability due to lupus. We partner with organizations to identify those in need and provide financial support, education, and vital resources.
Our Mission in Action:
- Financial Security: We help families navigate income loss, disability benefits, and healthcare costs.
- Child & Family Support: Our efforts ensure children receive needed care while enhancing overall quality of life for the entire family.
- Insurance Advocacy: We guide families through complex insurance systems and coverage decisions.
Our work is fueled by generous donors—friends, family, and supporters of the lupus community—whose contributions directly impact lives.
Thank you for advancing our mission. Together, we’re building a stronger future for families living with lupus.
Gina P. Wingell Foundation, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
$2,100 raised for our recipients in New York!
Thank you to everyone who participated!
Published: 08/29/24 1:13 PM EST
Over the weekend, the leadership committee of the Gina P. Wingell Foundation Inc. traveled to visit our recipients, Sharon and Brianna from New York. We treated them to lunch and delivered over $2,100 of financial assistance. Our funds are dedicated to covering their travel expenses as they commute for necessary medical treatments. It was an incredible experience, and when we provide support to these families, it truly means everything to us. As we continue to grow, my heartfelt prayer is that we can extend even more assistance to the families under the care of the Gina P. Wingell Foundation. A special thank you to Delmonico’s for hosting us, and immense gratitude to everyone who contributed to this cause!
Gina P. Wingell is featured in Tap into Roxbury.
Local publication distributes press release announcing the commencement of Gina P. Wingell Foundation, Inc.
Published: 04/27/23 08:27 AM EST
Local publication helps to get the word out about Gina P. Wingell Foundation. Check it out here: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/morristown/articles/roxbury-alumni-forms-nonprofit-in-memory-of-mom-5
New Jersey recognizes Lupus Awareness Month 2025!
Gina P. Wingell Foundation truly stands at the forefront, leading the charge against the devastating financial effects of lupus disability.
Published: 04/20/25 9:08 AM EST
Exciting news! The Gina P. Wingell Foundation, with support from Liz Ortiz-Colon and Governor Phil Murphy, has secured a proclamation recognizing May as Lupus Awareness Month in New Jersey. This milestone amplifies our mission to raise awareness, support families, and drive change for those impacted by lupus. Together, we’re making a difference!
Digital Disability Action Kit- COMING Nov 2025.
Kit will be available and fully downloadable SOON.
Published: 05/10/24 02:10 PM EST
Download the Disability Action Kit that includes information and resources to assist you in the event of permanent disability. The kit will help families in two ways: I have become disabled... I want to prevent hardship from my disability... What should I do?
2025 Lupus Advocacy Summit
We made it and we did our jobs.
Published: 5/07/25 02:53 PM EST-
This week, advocates from across the country gathered at the 2025 National Lupus Advocacy Summit to raise awareness and push for change. We proudly emphasized the critical role Medicaid plays in delivering lifesaving care and sustaining quality of life for those living with lupus. As the summit concludes, the stories we’ve heard underscore the deep financial strain lupus can place on families—highlighting the urgent need for continued advocacy and policy reform. Until next year, we remain committed to advancing this mission and standing strong for lupus warriors everywhere.
We have successfully raised funds!
$1,280.00 raised for Kira's battle against lupus disability.
Published: 07/25/23 02:03 PM EST- Updated
We have recently provided a total of $1,280.00 USD to Kira thanks to the help and support of the lupus community. Together, we can continue to provide to families nationwide.
The reality of disability...
Anyone can become disabled.
Did you know that one in four working Americans will face a disability before reaching retirement?
When a family member becomes disabled, the impact extends far beyond the individual. The emotional and financial strain can be overwhelming, reshaping the lives of loved ones and placing tremendous pressure on the entire household.
Disability is vastly misunderstood.
The overwhelming majority of disabilities stem from biological causes.
Most people assume, “It won’t happen to me.” Out of sight, out of mind. But the truth is, disabilities often strike without warning—sudden, life-altering, and financially devastating.
It’s like living beneath a dam: everything seems fine—until it isn’t. And by then, it’s too late to prepare.
That’s why proactive disability coverage isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Living with illness and injury.
When a person becomes disabled, their life undergoes significant changes that impact not only them but also those around them. Describing the pain and losses associated with disability can be challenging, but it’s essential to recognize the multifaceted aspects of this experience:
Physical Challenges: Disabilities often bring physical limitations. Mobility issues, chronic pain, and loss of independence can be overwhelming. Simple tasks become complex, and the body’s abilities change dramatically.
Emotional Struggles: The emotional toll of disability is profound. Individuals may experience grief, frustration, anger, or sadness. Coping with the loss of abilities, dreams, and expectations can be an ongoing battle.
Social Isolation: Disability can lead to social isolation. Friends and family might struggle to understand the person’s new reality, leading to strained relationships. Social events, outings, and gatherings become more challenging.
Loss of Identity: A disability can alter one’s sense of self. Roles and identities tied to physical abilities (such as being an athlete, dancer, or caregiver) may shift. Accepting this new identity can be a journey.
Financial Burden: Medical expenses, assistive devices, and necessary modifications to living spaces can strain finances. Navigating insurance, disability benefits, and employment can be overwhelming.
Stigma and Prejudice: Society often stigmatizes disability. People with disabilities may face discrimination, stereotypes, and misconceptions. Advocacy and education are crucial to combatting these biases.
Adaptation and Resilience: Despite the challenges, many individuals with disabilities demonstrate remarkable resilience. They adapt, find new passions, and build supportive networks. Their stories inspire others.
People Experience Loss:
- Luxuries of lifestyle
- Ease of living
- Jobs and Income
- Livelihoods and businesses
- Social events
- Friends and family relationships
- A Future with ease
People Experience Stress:
- Mental stress
- Physical pain
- Social stress
- Spiritual stress
- Financial stress
- Activities of daily living
- General losses
The truth about disability?
Anyone can become disabled.
Income is your most important financial asset.
The average individual isn’t aware of their risk of becoming disabled (1 in 4).
There are many ways that an individual may become disabled. (Accident, sickness, maternity, injury, surgey, predispositions, etc.)
Disability prevents you from saving for the future and affording the present.
Can you use personal savings?
| Years Disabled | Total Expenses | Approximate Years of Savings Needed |
| 1 | $48,000 | 13 years |
| 2 | $96,000 | 26 years |
| 3 | $144,000 | 38 years |
| 4 | $192,000 | 51 years |
Assumptions: individual, age 30, salary:$75,000, saving: 5% per year ($3,750), $4,000 monthely expenses
Anyone can become disabled.
The vast majority of disabilities stem from biological conditions such as lupus—not from accidents or injuries. Yet many assume, “It won’t happen to me.” It’s an out-of-sight, out-of-mind mindset. The reality is that most disabilities occur suddenly, without warning, leaving little time to prepare.
Becoming disabled will severely impact your financial future.
Lupus disability prevents people from working where they want and making an income they deserve. Without income, our futures are uncertain and we may miss out on lifes pleasantries. Loss of income from a spouse can severely alter the entire family's destiny.
Even short-term disabilities can undo years of savings.
There is a difference between short term (temporary) and long term (permanent disability). Without income protection, even short-term disabilities can wipe out families entire savings in just one year off work.
Gina Pauline Wingell
She Was,
A Model Mother, Loving Wife, Loyal Friend, & Servant Of God.
Gina Pauline Wingell was a loving mother, daughter, sister, wife, and a caring friend to many. She often sought the happiness of others before her own. She sacrificed herself to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. Gina truely wanted only the best for her family and friends.
As a mother, Gina filled many roles in her children’s lives. She was never much of a sports fan but took every opportunity possible to be alongside her kids as one of the coaches. Little league, soccer, and rugby- she was present every game. She also adored participating as a Girl Scout den mother, which brought her tremendous joy.
Her presence was healing and peaceful. She taught her children modesty, empathy, and respect, and was an outstanding wife. Our family could not have asked for better.
Gina's life was a melody of inspiration and strength. As a high school Radio DJ, she found her rhythm early on. Her love for music was a constant, as she shared inspirational tunes with her family and used the power of Elton John, REM, Led Zeppelin, and The Moody Blues to start her kids' days with energy.
Her entrepreneurial spirit shone when she founded “Time Saver Temps,” and later, as an executive secretary at Nabisco, she showcased her innovative drive.
Gina's stature was small, but her spirit was indomitable. She was a champion for the underdog, fighting valiantly until the end. Her legacy resonates in the love she spread and the joy she found in her family and friends. Remembered as a devoted mother and a servant of God, Gina's spirit will forever be cherished and her struggles honored in the afterlife.
Families we've served
Our Pledge To Those In Need
- We shall love and respect all who require our assistance.
- We acknowledge that no one is flawless.
- We empathize with those in hardship and those rising from it.
- We shall offer compassion wherever possible.
- We will provide a shoulder for them to cry on.
- We will extend a hand where there may be none.
- We will not give up on the families for whom we fight.