May 4, 2006

Almaden playgroup holds “Jump-for-a-Cure” for pal
with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Mark your calendar: Arthritis Foundation annual Walk this Saturday!

Last Thursday, Ellen Takeuchi and fellow moms and members from their local neighborhood playgroup sponsored the “Jump for a Cure” event at Takeuchi’s home in honor of playgroup member Lindsey Fredericks, 6, who was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of three.

Lindsey’s Playgroup Pals raised $5,150.35 at a recent Jump-a-Thon for their playgroup pal Lindsey Fredericks who has Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis.

The event featured two jump houses, lots of fun foods and drinks, and that day alone they raised $1,175.00!  “It was an amazing event, and the kids had a great time,” said Takeuchi. Classmates and neighborhood children from Williams Elementary School was invited to stop by after school for the event. After all was said and done the kids and their moms raised an impressive $5,150.35 for the cause.

But if you missed the Jump-for-a-Cure you can still participate in fundraising for a great cause by joining in this Saturday, May 6 when the local Arthritis Foundation will hold the 2006 Arthritis Foundation's annual Arthritis Walk. Put your feet to the street to help raise awareness of arthritis and, while you're doing it, take a tour of picturesque downtown San Jose. The walk will begin and end in historic St. James Park with food, games, and a lively expo.

Registration is between 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. and the walk starts at 9 a.m. There will also be a Health, Fun and Fitness Expo from 9 a.m. to noon.

For more information visit the walk Web site at www.sanjosearthritiswalk.kintera.org.