Highlights from Jingle Bell Run in Green Bay

Thank you to everyone who made the Jingle Bell Run at the University of Wisconsin- Green Bay a great day. Hope to see you all next year but to hold you over until then here are some of the highlights. You can find the rest of the photos from that day on the Arthritis Foundation Northeast Wisconsin page on facebook. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Arthritis-Foundation-Northeast-Wisconsin/114451255267298?ref=sgm

Snow Didn’t Stop Season’s Last Jingle Bell Runs

With predicted snowfalls in the double digits and winter storm warnings covering much of Wisconsin, many were concerned that the Wisconsin Chapter’s Jingle Bell Runs scheduled for Saturday might not happen. With rescheduling at such a late date impossible, organizers pressed on encouraging others to be safe and practice WI winter weather caution. Those who were able to make it to their local event were not disappointed.

In some areas the blizzards held off and had just the right amount of snow while others got dumped on. All events had participants who made it out for a good cause bringing their Jingle Bell Run spirits. Many felt it was an important event to raise awareness.

“There are over 100 forms of arthritis that affect men, women and children. Our honoree this year is only 4 years old. She’s got rheumatoid arthritis and she’s going to have it her whole life and have an injection every single week,” Judy Miyagawa, Southwest, District Director, told WMSN-TV News at the 25th annual Jingle Bell Run in Madison, WI.

At the run people tie jingle bells to their shoes and many wear holiday-themed costumes as they hit the pavement for a good cause. The Jingle Bell Run is a fun, festive way to kick off the holidays while raising awareness and funds for programs that support the 1 in 5 Americans who battle arthritis.

“It is a serious disease, it effects a huge portion of our population, the population that it effects is only getting greater and greater. It’s not decreasing, and with awareness they will talk about it,” Laura Libert, Northeast WI District Director, told WAOW News at the Wausau, WI, Jingle Bell Run.

Laura also spoke with WSAW News, “This is the 9th Jingle Bell Run/Walk here at Wausau, on a very snowy day. I’ve been doing this for 15 years and this is the first time we’ve had this kind of substantial snowfall for a Jingle Bell Run.”

Participants  were welcomed back from their run/walk with hot chocolate, a warm bowl of soup and warm spirits.

The last of the 2010 WI Jingle Bell Runs will be remembered for the blizzard conditions of the weekend but they will also be remembered for the amazing people who came together to make it happen. The sponsors, volunteers, donors and participants are what make every Jingle Bell Run event a success year after year.

Click on links below to check out scenes across snowy Wisconsin:

In Wausau, WI:

News Coverage by WAOW- Newsline 9, Patrick Manning- Jingle Bell run – WAOW – Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, Sports.

News Coverage by WSAW- News, Casey O’Halloran- Hundreds Bundle Up For Jingle Bell Run.

In Madison, WI:

News Coverage by-WMSN FOX 47 :: Newsroom – Top Stories – Thousands raise money for Jingle Bell Run.

In Eau Claire, WI:

News Coverage by WQOW- News, Kevin Keen-Hundreds lace up for a run in the snow – WQOW TV: Eau Claire, WI NEWS18 News, Weather, and Sports.

We were also on WI and MI border in Menominee, MI:

Northeast District’s page on Facebook: Facebook

Arthritis Winter Safety Tips

Its definitely time to dust off those winter safety tips and take a look at them again. That snow has been flying all over Wisconsin and even though our Jingle Bell Run Season will be wrapping up soon,  its just the beginning of the snow season. The Arthritis foundation Wisconsin Chapter wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

1. Joints affected by arthritis can be especially achy when it’s cold outside due to the contracting of tendons, ligaments and muscles. Take time to warm up and bundle up!

2. It’s important to keep moving to keep muscles strong so they can support your joints. There are lots of exercises you can do indoors either with the Arthritis Foundation’s Exercise Program DVD or in a class near you. (Ordering info is here – and you can call our Information and Referral Hotline at 800-242-9945 or 414-321-3933).

3. If you’ve been listening to your body and you think you’re up for it, remember to take breaks when shoveling or snow plowing. You don’t want to over do it. There are special shovels on the market that can help relieve strain on your back. Remember to lift with you legs and avoid twisting motions that can aggravate your knees, hips and lower back!

4. When dealing with that shovel or snow plow, you can make the handle bigger and easier to grip by wrapping a towel around the handle and securing it with tape. You often can do this inside before you head out into the cold.

5. If you’re body tells you that you shouldn’t be out removing snow from your sidewalk or driveway, perhaps there is a nice neighbor, local kid or church member who could be called on to remove your snow when you’re unable to. For a fee, there are often snow removal services in most towns.

6. Be extra careful when you’re walking outside so that you don’t slip on ice or slush. Walking slowly, taking your time and keeping areas well-lit can help you see those dangerous spots.

7.  Contact your physician if you are noticing new aches and pains. Open communication leads to better care.

8. If you’re participating in the last four Jingle Bell Run/Walks of 2010 in Wisconsin, please dress for the weather and be careful on those paths. Runners should be in the front at the start line so no one gets tripped up. I’m looking at you Madison, Marinette, Wausau, and Eau Claire.

9. For other questions, feel free to call the Arthritis Foundation at 414-321-3933 or 800-242-9945.

Thanks for an excellent JBR season thus far!

The Arthritis Foundation, Wisconsin Chapter would like to extend a special thank you to our volunteers, participants, and staff who helped make the Jingle Bell Run in Racine possible!

We had an excellent turnout on a chilly December day.  We would like to thank everyone for their cooperation, support, and enthusiasm throughout the JBR season with the Arthritis Foundation.

Don’t forget if you missed any of the Jingle Bell Runs up until this point there are still a few left to participant in!  We hope to see you there with bells on!

 

(12/11/10) – Eau Claire, http://www.jbreauclaire.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Madison, http://www.jbrmadison.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Marinette/Menominee, http://www.jbrmm.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Wausau, http://www.jbrwausau.kintera.org

Hopeful For the Future: JBR Honoree, Jillian

Your Support Makes a Difference.

Jillian, of Green Bay, WI, is a happy 5-year-old enjoying new experiences as a kindergartener. However, at the age of 3, Jillian’s future didn’t appear so bright. Jillian’s parents noticed she was limping and trying to walk while holding her right leg straight. When asked about it, Jillian said, “The puppy scratched me.” With a new pet, her parents thought it could be true, but they didn’t see any scratches. Two days later, Jillian awoke with redness and swelling in her knee accompanied by a lot of pain and discomfort.

Trips to the pediatrician’s office, blood work and referrals to a rheumatologist finally led to a diagnosis: Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA). While they were relieved to know the cause of her pain and swelling, they were scared for her future. Jillian has been through several medications, trips to specialists and finally found a combination that has kept her JRA under control. While cautiously optimistic that this will do the job, her family is hopeful that one day Jillianwill be able to say that her arthritis has been cured.

Please join honoree, Jillian, and her family at the Jingle Bell Run/Walk as they take steps to help the Arthritis Foundation find a cure for her and the 1.1 million people in Wisconsin affected by arthritis.

Be part of Wisconsin’s Jingle Bell Run 2010 in one of the following cities:

check out the cities below for upcoming Jingle bell Runs.

(12/4/10) – Green Bay, http://www.jbrgreenbay.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Janesville, http://www.jbrjanesville.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Racine, http://www.jbrracine.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Eau Claire, http://www.jbreauclaire.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Madison, http://www.jbrmadison.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Marinette/Menominee, http://www.jbrmm.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Wausau, http://www.jbrwausau.kintera.org

JBR Racine is almost here!

The Jingle Bell Run in Racine is right around the corner!  It kicks off Saturday, December 4^th at 9:30 a.m. at Racine Lutheran High School.  Register online at www.jbrracine.kintera.org.  Registration fees are $25 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under.  Registration can also be done on race day between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.

 

Kid’s Race!
This year, we are holding a kid’s race at 9:00 AM prior to the 5K event. Participants in each age group will receive a prize.
Race 1: Children 3 and under, Children 4-6
Race 2: Children 7-8, Children 9-10
Children 10 & under are welcome to participate in both the Kid’s Race and the 5K event!

 

Pre-Event Packet Pickup
Save time in line and pick up your packet early! You may pick up your event materials on Friday, December 3 between 4:00 and 7:00 PM at Racine Lutheran High School, 251 Luedtke Ave, Racine.

AWARDS

Top Pledge-Raising Team
The team raising the most pledges will receive a team prize.
Largest Team
The team captain of the largest team will receive a prize.
Fastest Team
A traveling plaque will be awarded to the team finishing in first place, determined by the average time of the five fastest runners.
Team Spirit Award
This coveted award will go to the team displaying the most holiday enthusiasm before and during the event.
Team members are also eligible for individual pledge prizes and medals.

Individual Awards
The top overall male and female finishers will receive medals, as well as the top three male and female finishers in each of the following age brackets:
10 & under, 11-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29
30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59
60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 and over

Costume Contest
Show your holiday spirit and don your most creative costume! Prizes will be awarded in the following categories during the post-event celebration:
Group: two or more individuals dressing with a common theme
Individual: best costume over the age of 12

Child: best costume for 12 and under

 

We hope to see everyone there with bells on!  But, if you can’t make this JBR, register for one of our other awesome races across the state:

 

(12/4/10) – Green Bay, http://www.jbrgreenbay.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Janesville, http://www.jbrjanesville.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Racine, http://www.jbrracine.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Eau Claire, http://www.jbreauclaire.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Madison, http://www.jbrmadison.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Marinette/Menominee, http://www.jbrmm.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Wausau, www.jbrwausau.kintera.org

JBR Milwaukee Pictures!

            The Jingle Bell Run at the Milwaukee County Zoo was once again a huge success!  Teams and individual runners came with their bells on ready to have some fun. 

            The race kicked off at 8:30 a.m. and over 4,000 participants lined up at the starting point.  Runners and walkers of all ages made their way through zoo just as the animals were beginning to wake up. 

            The Arthritis Foundation could not have asked for more perfect weather on this great day. The Arthritis Foundation would like to extend a special thank you to all the volunteers who helped make this day possible, as well as everyone who participated in the Jingle Bell Run. 

            If you missed the Jingle Bell Run at the zoo, sign up to come to one of our other Jingle Bell Run events across the state!

(12/4/10) – Green Bay, http://www.jbrgreenbay.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Janesville, http://www.jbrjanesville.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Racine, http://www.jbrracine.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Eau Claire, http://www.jbreauclaire.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Madison, http://www.jbrmadison.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Marinette/Menominee, http://www.jbrmm.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Wausau, www.jbrwausau.kintera.org

Check out the pictures from JBR at the zoo!

The First of Many Cities Who Will Be Hitting the Pavement with Their Jingle Bells

Northeast Wisconsin, Fox 11 WLUK News Story:

Jingle Bell Run helps a good cause

Funds raised support Arthritis Foundation of NE WI

APPLETON – Runners braved the chilly weather for a good cause Saturday morning.

The first of several Jingle Bell Runs kicked off at Players Choice in Appleton.

Some people took part in a 5K run outside, but those who wanted to stay warmer opted for a one mile walk inside.

The event supports the Arthritis Foundation of Northeast Wisconsin.

Organizers say the money goes toward many different programs that help thousands of people.

“We talked about bringing speakers in to talk about different and new therapies and drugs that are available to folks that are dealing with arthritis. We have 5,400 children in the state of Wisconsin with juvenile arthritis and over a million adults with arthritis in Wisconsin alone,” said event organizer Vicki Bosanny.

The Appleton run was the first of several planned for the area.

The next Jingle Bell Run will be held in Oshkosh next Saturday.

For video:

http://www.fox11online.com/dpp/health/jingle-bell-run-helps-a-good-cause

 

Arthritis Foundation Editorial Note: It was a fun, beautiful day for kicking off the Wisconsin Jingle Bell Run Season. If you weren’t able to make it to the event, check out the cities below for upcoming Jingle bell Runs.

(11/13/10) – Oshkosh, http://www.jbroshkosh.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Green Bay, http://www.jbrgreenbay.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Janesville, http://www.jbrjanesville.kintera.org

(12/4/10) – Racine, http://www.jbrracine.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Eau Claire, http://www.jbreauclaire.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Madison, http://www.jbrmadison.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Marinette/Menominee, http://www.jbrmm.kintera.org

(12/11/10) – Wausau, http://www.jbrwausau.kintera.org

BRING OUR WI BELLS: FESTIVE HOLIDAY PHOTO CONTEST KICKS OFF 2010 JINGLE BELL RUN/WALK FOR ARTHRITIS

 

ATLANTA, GA,  — To kick off the 2010 Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis, the Arthritis Foundation is launching the “Be There with Bells On” Flickr Photo Contest asking people to submit images of their favorite “bells” – from the Liberty Bell to sleigh bells.

The Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis is a fun and festive way to kick off the holidays with family, friends and coworkers while positively impacting the lives of the 50 million Americans with arthritis. Thousands of runners and walkers will hit the nation’s pavements, pathways and parks this winter to fight arthritis. With some 67 million Americans projected to have arthritis by 2030, now is the time to escalate efforts to prevent, treat and cure the most common cause of disability in the U.S.

“The Jingle Bell Run/Walk aims to raise funds in the name of preventing, controlling and curing arthritis,” said Dr. John Klippel, Arthritis Foundation President and CEO, “all while encouraging daily physical activity for better health.”

Submissions to the contest will be solicited online via Flickr and at all participating 2010 Jingle Bell Run/Walk events and entries will be housed on the Arthritis Foundation’s Flickr page. An overall contest winner will be chosen in January 2011 and will receive the grand prize of two roundtrip tickets and a weekend getaway courtesy of Delta and Hilton Honors.

For more information on the “Be There with Bells On” Flickr Photo Contest, visit http://www.flickr.com/groups/1540873@N22/. To find the nearest Jingle Bell Run/Walk event contact your local Arthritis Foundation chapter or visit www.arthritis.org.

About the Arthritis Foundation

The Arthritis Foundation is the leading health organization addressing the needs of the 50 million adults and 300,000 children living with arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability. The Foundation helps individuals take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; supporting research and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis.

The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $400 million in research grants since 1948. The foundation helps individuals take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Information is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-283-7800 or www.arthritis.org.

Gabby’s Diagnosis- Connected by E-mail

With arthritis impacting the lives of 1 in 5 Americans there are many individual stories of arthritis. A few weeks ago, we shared the story of Gabby, a toddler who was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at 16 months. As part of a military family, Gabby was with her parents who were stationed overseas far from family and friends during this difficult time.

Gabby’s family has shared these E-mail excerpts with all of us so we can understand a bit more about their story. The e-mail excerpts are from John and Maria, Gabby’s parents,  to Gabby’s Grandparents; during the initial diagnosis it was their primary communication. Thank you to them for sharing their experience.

 

5/05/2010

The x-ray came back normal.  We went in today to get the labs done but Gabby didn’t cooperate very well.  We managed to get half a vile and finger prick test done (after poking her four times).  We, however, did not get the Lyme’s disease or Leukemia test, which were lower on his priority list and also needed to be sent out.  We knew for sure that they were doing the CBC and mono test but were unsure of the others being run.

We were sent home to get her urinalysis.  However it is near impossible.

 

 

John and Maria

 

 5/06/2010

Gabby can’t really stand and her joints were a little more swollen, ankles also little warm.  Finally got a referral for an appointment at a local clinic.  He looked at her and immediately called his colleague who happened to be a pediatric rheumatologist.  He pretty much told us to drive straight there.  She is admitted in the hospital for however long it takes to figure out what is wrong.  They think pretty much that it might be Arthritis from an infection, but do not think bacterial at this point or it could be possibly the start of Rheumatoid.  They did more blood work, strep culture, ultrasounds, we will see what happens tomorrow.  Maria will stay at the hospital until Gabby is released.  Hopefully it will not be too many days.

 

Thanks again,

  

John

 

 

 

 

5/10/2010

We still don’t know much of anything but we are still in the hospital.  They are waiting to get the blood tests back but they think it may be Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis.  They want to test her eyes and do another ultrasound this afternoon.  We are pretty scared about this diagnosis if that is what she has.  We just want her to walk and be normal.  Keep praying for Gabby.

We are hanging in here.  John and I both have colds now so we are not 100%.  It has been really stressful and have gotten minimal sleep the last few days.

Anyway I just wanted to give you an update.  We finally have internet here at the hospital so I should be better about replying to emails and whatnot.

  

Take care and talk to you soon!

Maria

 

5/10/2010 -Gabby’s Grandma to the family

Just take care of yourself…I know you and John are run down and that’s why you’ve gotten sick.

If Gabby does have Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, don’t think of the worst.  I have been reading inspirational stories of children and adults that have it and with the right treatment and exercise (which she will always have access to with parents like you and John) she can manage it.  I know that’s not much comfort but attitude is everything and you will need to show her that.

One of the people I read about is an exercise instructor.  If she doesn’t exercise 6 days a week, she has pain, but she is in good health when she moves her joints and keeps off the weight, that is why she became an exercise instructor.

We love her so much Maria…she makes me laugh when I see her videos.  She is as independent and as stubborn as her parents and this will not beat her.  Remember I love you….keep me posted.

Mom

 

5/11/2010

We talked with our doctors this morning.  Gabby has been diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) that is in both of her knees and left elbow.  We are having her eyes checked this afternoon and will have to have them checked every 6 weeks.  She will be treated with ibuprofen initially.  We are meeting with the Director, who is a specialist in Pediatric Rheumatology, in 14 days to talk about treatment options and whatnot.  If the ibuprofen doesn’t work then they will move on to Cortisone shots or Chemotherapy drugs.  Gabby will most likely have to go to physical therapy and swimming with mom (I need to find a pool)!

We are hoping that this doesn’t carry into adulthood.  Please continue to pray for Gabby.  She has a long road ahead of her and she needs all the positive energy to come her way!

  

 

Love,
John, Maria, and Gabby

 

 

5/26/2010

Hello All!

Gabby had her follow up appointment with the specialist today.  He said that she is doing better than when she was admitted and there is less fluid in her knees, which is good.  We go back on July 12th to see whether or not we will move to steroids.  The steroids would be put into her joints directly and we would be in the hospital for two days to monitor her after sedation and to make sure she doesn’t get an infection from the injection site.  At this point we are still at a wait and see.  We are continuing with physical therapy twice a week.  Continue to pray for Gabs!

  

Love Maria

 

 

Gabby and physical therapist

Update: Today, October 26, 2010

Lei, Gabby’s Grandma, says treatment has been going well, “We are fortunate that the treatment is working and we are hoping it lasts. I am also hoping that they will be able to remove some of her medication soon but it sounds like it might be a while before they are comfortable doing so, if at all.  She is the happiest little girl I know and looks like any other toddler but she takes pain reliever at 10am, 6 pm, and 2am (mom gets up with her at 2:00am to get something in her stomach with the meds). Gabby will continue seeing her specialist on a regular basis and will have her eyes examined every 6 weeks to prevent sight complications.”

“We are extremely lucky that Gabby has done so well with her treatment so far and are thankful to your organization for bringing awareness to the public for support and funds to help others like our Gabby,” says Lei.