Photos from the 10th Annual Walk for Scleroderma
Monday, May 07, 2012
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease in which the tissues of the skin or internal organs begins to harden. The illness is chronic and often progressive and can cause serious damage and tightening to skin or vital organs over time. It affects more women than men and at present, there is no known cause or cure.
In support of the event, Mayor Joe Petty was there to declare the week an official city-wide week of awareness and delivered a proclamation to those putting on the event and members of the Bancroft School, the New England chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation, and other volunteer organizations.
Debbie Magnuson, who received a dedication for this year’s walk was very pleased with this year’s turnout and volunteers.
"The first time we held this event, we didn’t even know if anyone would show up. Scleroderma The first time we held this event, we didn’t even know if anyone would show up," Magnuson said. "Over the last ten years, it's just been getting better and better. It’s become a family thing."
Her son, Eric, started the walk ten years ago as a senior project at the Bancroft School and has helped to raise roughly $300,000 since for research. Additionally, Scott Reisinger, Headmaster of the Bancroft School has become involved; his daughter Hannah was there to show support and has been since 3rd grade.
The longevity of this annual fundraiser has only increased the hopes of those supporting the awareness and education of scleroderma.
“The magnificent part of today is that this is our tenth annual walk,” said Jack Armitage, Executive Director for the New England chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation as volunteers in yellow shirts filled the Bancroft gym. Debbie’s whole family has been such a big support system for this event.”
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