First annual “Walk to End Lupus” held in Americus to raise funds, awareness

Published 5:20 pm Wednesday, May 25, 2016

From STAFF REPORTS

AMERICUS – The first annual “Walk to End Lupus” was held on May 21 at the Sumter County Recreation and Sports Complex on Highway 19, in Americus.
Around 100 individuals participated in the walk/run fundraiser in which over $700 raised to support research, education, and advocacy and to provide unmatched patient support services for the 1.5 million Americans affected by Lupus.
The event was hosted by the Lupus Trailblazers of Americus, a group comprised of individuals who have been affected by the disease, whether themselves or through the loss of a loved one.
This year’s event was held in loving memory of Johnna White. White was a 2003 graduate of Americus High School whose battle with Lupus ended on March 2, 2015. Her family and friends rallied together to sponsor this event in her honor.
In a recent press release, a spokesperson for the Lupus Trailblazers wrote, “We had a great time as we walked and ran to raise awareness in our community. We are striving to provide local support for Lupus warriors and their families through our annual Walk to End Lupus. It is our goal to make this event greater each year.”
Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body. The disease creates auto-antibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue. These auto-antibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body.

Submitted Photo:   Participants in the fist annual ”Walk to End Lupus” make their way around the course at the Sumter County Sports and Recreation Complex on May 21.

Submitted Photo:
Participants in the fist annual ”Walk to End Lupus” make their way around the course at the Sumter County Sports and Recreation Complex on May 21.