Special to the Record
Individuals living with and affected by scleroderma will join together at 9:00 a.m., on June 10, at Deer Island, 190 Taft Avenue, Winthrop, MA, to take part in the annual Deer Island Stroll – Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma walk. Scleroderma is a rare rheumatic disease that affects connective tissue and the vascular system, producing excessive collagen that causes fibrosis in the skin (localized) or in internal organs (systemic sclerosis). The disease can cause disfigurement and disability. For some, it’s life-threatening. There is no known cause or cure. More than 300,000 Americans live with the disease.
This year marks a special occasion for the organization. The National Scleroderma Foundation is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Founded in 1998, the Foundation has been advancing medical research, promoting disease awareness, and providing support to people with scleroderma, their families and support networks for 25 years. For the last 20 of those years, walks have taken place across the country to bring awareness to the disease and raise funds to support the National Scleroderma Foundation’s mission.
“The scope of our work is nationwide,” said Mary Wheatley, CEO of the National Scleroderma Foundation. “And we are grateful to our supporters across the country who are leading the fight against this disease. Our Deer Island Stroll is a special one with walkers, organizers, and volunteers who are incredibly committed and passionate.”
Our local New England Chapter makes a difference in the lives of those living with and affected by scleroderma. The work to help individuals find their best path is happening nationwide and right here in the Boston community. Our walk is an opportunity to celebrate our scleroderma warriors.
Learn more about scleroderma and available resources at scleroderma.org.