Fast Facts about Arthritis
- 46 Million Americans or nearly one in five adults are affected by arthritis.
- 300,000 Children suffer from Juvenile Arthritis.
- Arthritis refers to more than 100 different diseases that affect areas in and around joints.
- Arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States.
- Arthritis limits everyday activities such as walking, dressing, and bathing for millions of Americans.
- Arthritis costs the U.S. economy $128 Billion annually.
The Arthritis Foundation
There are 46 million people across the U.S. with arthritis, 300,000 of them are CHILDREN. The Arthritis Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to help those suffering from arthritis. The Arthritis Walk is the foundation's signature fundraising event that supports community programs and services and critical research aimed at the prevention, treatment, and cure of this crippling disease.
Because arthritis is commonly thought to be a disease that only affects older people, many people are unaware of the devastating impact juvenile arthritis has on children. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. The types of arthritis that affect children and young adults not only destroys areas in and around the joints, but can also affect eyesight, internal organs, as well as cause other serious health issues. The Arthritis Foundation strives to improve the lives of these children and their families with the hope of one day finding a cure.
Arthritis Walk History
On May 3, 2003, 653 walkers participated in Virginia's first Arthritis Walk held in Richmond. Since then we have expanded to 9 walks statewide, raising just under $400,000 last year. The first Arthritis Walk in the Winchester / Northern Shenandoah Valley area was held in 2005. The walks have grown tremendously in the Winchester area, raising $16,000 in 2005, $22,000 in 2006, $32,000 in 2007, and $45,000 in 2008. Last year we had 225 registered walkers participating in the Northern Shenandoah Valley walk, and in 2009, we are expecting to grow even more. Last year the Northern Shenandoah Valley Arthritis Walk ranked 2nd in fundraising in the Virginia Chapter only behind Richmond. This is an incredible feat given that many of the other walk markets in Virginia are much larger than the Winchester area.
The goal for the 2009 Northern Shenandoah Valley Arthritis Walk is $50,000.
The Northern Shenandoah Valley Arthritis Walk will be held
Saturday, May 16, 2009 at Sherando High School in Stephens City, VA
