Lupus Foundation of America to Hold ‘Walk to End Lupus Now’ on September 19 “Lupus Awareness Day” in Scottsdale

The Lupus Foundation of America has invited Scottsdale, Arizona’s Mayor, Jim Lane, as its guest of honor during the annual Walk to End Lupus Now fundraiser, the largest lupus walk program in the country, which is set to take place at the Scottsdale Center for the Arts on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. The Mayor will be delivering the official “Lupus Awareness Day” proclamation during the event’s opening ceremonies. Walk to End Lupus Now events are held in over 60 cities, successfully uniting members of the lupus community, including patients, friends, families, health professionals and even celebrities to help raise funds for much-needed research and education programs and boosting awareness.

“For years now, it’s been my pleasure to support the Lupus Foundation of America and their mission to find a cure for this mysterious disease that affects so many,” said Mayor Jim Lane.

Estimates show that lupus affects 1.5 million people in the United States, and about 5 million all over the globe. Despite these alarming numbers, research efforts to better understand and advance improved treatments for this disease remain lacking support. Today, patients suffering from lupus only have one FDA-approved treatment option available to them.

“While we work to solve the cruel mystery of lupus, we must ensure that all Arizona residents affected by lupus have access to the resources and support they need,” said Sandra C. Raymond, President and CEO of Lupus Foundation of America. “By coming together to raise funds and awareness, Phoenix area residents are showing their power and support for people with lupus, families, friends and entire the community of those suffering with lupus.”