More than 200 Sjögren’s (“SHOW-grins”) patients, family members, friends, caregivers, and health care professionals will depart from Lake Fairfax to embark on a Walk for Sjögren’s, supported by the Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation (SSF). The year’s theme, “Celebrating Our Strength,” honors and recognizes the personal strength of Sjögren's patients and those who support them every day. The event will also feature music, games, prizes, and an “Ask the Expert” panel of local health care experts who will be on hand to answer questions about the disease.
Sjögren’s is a systemic autoimmune disease that affects the entire body. It is the second most common autoimmune rheumatic disease, affecting as many as 4 million Americans, with an estimated 2.5 million patients currently undiagnosed. Upwards of 40,000 people in the D.C./Virginia area are affected. Sjögren’s is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed as symptoms frequently overlap with or mimic other diseases. Currently there is no cure and diagnosis typically takes an average of 2.8 years. The SSF is the only non-profit organization focused on increasing research, education and awareness for Sjögren’s.
The walk will take place Saturday, May 19 (rain or shine). Health Fair and Registration opens at 9 a.m.; Walk for Sjögren’s begins at 10 a.m. at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston.
The Greater Washington Walk for Sjögren’s is part of a national fundraising program designed to raise awareness and crucial funds to support Sjögren’s research and education. Donations will be accepted on site and online http://events.sjogrens.org/GWRWalk.
For more information about the event, visit http://events.sjogrens.org/GWRWalk. To learn more about Sjögren’s, visit www.sjogrens.org or call 1-800-475-6473.