Walking for a cure for lupus
The seventh annual Walk to End Lupus Now is set for Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m. at Veterans Park. The walk is sponsored by the Lupus Foundation of America, the largest nonprofit organization in the United States that is dedicated to finding the causes and cure for lupus as well as providing support and services to those affected.
According to the foundation, lupus is an autoimmune disease that attacks the body, causing severe fatigue, rashes, light sensitivity, anemia, joint pain, fever, joint swelling, kidney complications and sometimes death. All money from the race will help support research for finding a cure for the disease.
“This is a family fun event that invites those in the community to come out to participate in an event that celebrates life, a mission and the hope for a cure,” said Katelyn Slaughter, development coordinator for the foundation’s mid-South chapter.
Registration will begin at 8 a.m. and entertainment will be provided throughout the morning. Various prizes will be given to participants. Parking will be available at Spain Park High School as well as at Veterans Park.
“The route itself is both a one mile and 3K round around Veterans Park,” Slaughter said. “We will have water and small snacks available for registered guests after the walk. We encourage guests to arrive early to avoid the registration line, and to also register online prior to the event.”
According to the foundation, 27,000 people in Alabama have been diagnosed with lupus. It takes an average of four to seven years to diagnose the disease because it can often be confused with fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and other common muscle diseases and complications. Additionally, while lupus is commonly found in women ages 19-55, it can also affect children and men.
Slaughter is hoping for a large turnout this year.
“Last year we had over 800 participants,” Slaughter said. “We are hoping to continue growing in numbers each year.”
For more information or to register for the walk, visit lupusmidsouth.org/events.