HARLINGEN — Saturday will be a time to walk, fundraise and enjoy a half day of fun — all in the name of raising awareness of lupus.
The Third Annual Walk to END Lupus NOW & 5K Fun Run will start at 8 a.m. Saturday at Pendleton Park.
There will be a special appearance by La Nueva 99.5s Kike, the Party Man, Enrique Mejorado.
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body, including skin, joints and organs.
Chronic means the signs and symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks and often for years.
In lupus, something goes wrong with the immune system, which is the part of the body that fights off viruses, bacteria and germs. Normally the immune system produces “antibodies” which protect the body.
However, “autoimmunity” means the immune system cannot tell the difference between the invaders and the healthy tissues.
As a result, it creates autoantibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue. These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain and damage in various parts of the body.
The Lupus Foundation of America, Texas Gulf Coast Chapter is a part of a national force devoted to solving the cruel mystery of lupus while providing caring support to those who suffer from its impacts.
WHAT: Third annual Walk to End Lupus Now & 5K Fun Run
WHERE: Pendleton Park, 1427 Morgan Boulevard
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 14, from 8 to 11 a.m.
WHY: Knowledge is key to early diagnosis, treatment and control of any disease.
Go to: http://tinyurl.com/ya8586oz to find out how to help.
Registration ends today at noon.
• Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body.
• Lupus is not contagious.
• Lupus can range from mild to life-threatening and should always be treated by a doctor. With good medical care, most people with lupus can lead a full life.
• More than 1.5 million Americans have lupus.
• The effects on individuals with lupus and their family and friends can be life diminishing, chronic and life-threatening.
• A total of 16,000 new cases of lupus are reported each year.
• Lupus has no known cause and cannot be cured. It is one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed diseases in the world.
