Good Times for a Great Cause Were Had at the 2015 Walk To End Lupus

The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) hosted the 2015 Walk to End Lupus Now at the beautiful Lake County Fairgrounds this afternoon. This event was filled with food, fun, and activities for all in celebration of the patrons’ hard work in fundraising.

The Walk to End Lupus Now occurs in many cities across the country to increase awareness of the disease and to raise much needed funds for local support services and research for a cure. Hundreds of participants joined together today to walk together for this cause, choosing either a one mile route or a complete 5k. The purpose of this event was to bring together all those affected by lupus to carry out the mission of the LFA, Indiana Chapter.

Click here to see all the photos from the Walk To End Lupus!

“I have really enjoyed my time here because I have met some truly fantastic lupus patients. I am honored to help them and work for them to push this issue,” shared Rebecca Smith, business manager of the Indiana Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America.

Each individual walking donated a minimum of $15. Every individual who raised $100 or more earned a 2015 commemorative Walk to End Lupus Now™ T-Shirt. Individual prizes from raffles were also part of the day’s fun! Multiple vendors set up shop in the pavilion to support the cause and share their services with participants.

“I am a vendor here today, and my role is provide information to the public about what we offer at Northshore,” stated Martin Zuniga, a member of community outreach for NorthShore Health Centers. “It is always important for NorthShore to be out in the public where the community is. We want to be where the people are, because the public dictates the services that we offer. Of course we’re here to provide information, but we also want to learn about the people. We want to know your health concerns and issues, and what services you need as a community. That is why it is so important to come out to events like this.”

It was a spectacular day for both new and veteran participants to come together and share support with one another. Friendships were formed and lasting bonds were created between those who have been affected both directly and indirectly by lupus. This was a great chance for the Lake County community to stand together and work toward the common goal of finding a cure.

“An event like this is so important for the community to raise awareness about autoimmune disorders and raise money for research,” said Stephanie Perillo, a participant in today’s event. “It is my first time walking, and I’m very excited!”

The vision of The Lupus Foundation of America is to create a world without lupus. The organization will advance the science and medicine of lupus to find a cure and improve the quality of life for all people affected.