Summer honored at Arthritis Walk
By Tannika King - Faculty
Darlington senior Ted Summer, who suffers from Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, was the youth honoree for the local Arthritis Walk, held Saturday, Oct. 15, at Ridge Ferry Park in Rome.
“I have very much enjoyed working with Ted on this important cause,” said Emily Young, development and services coordinator for The Arthritis Foundation. “His passion for educating others about juvenile arthritis is inspiring to anyone who has the opportunity to hear his story. He courageously counseled young children also suffering from arthritis at the Arthritis Foundation's Camp AcheAway this summer. The campers adored Ted and learned so much from him. They learned that even in spite of this painful disease, they can face it and feel hope. He is wonderful young man whom I admire and respect very much!”
Over 150 men, women, children and pets took part in this year’s event, raising nearly $20,000 for The Arthritis Foundation.
According to Summer’s web page for the Walk, his personal fundraising goal was $250. However, his team’s actual donations exceeded $1,500.
“It meant a lot to me to be honored at this occasion,” he said. “Support of the Arthritis Foundation doesn't just go to research and development, which is definitely helpful in the long run, but it funds many other important events. The most important example of what the Arthritis Foundation does is Camp AcheAway. They send children with arthritis to camp for free and while there, they have the experience of a lifetime getting to know others in the same condition. It gives them a lot of hope for their future with battling arthritis.”
The Arthritis Walk is the Arthritis Foundation’s annual nationwide signature event that raises funds and awareness to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability. Events are hosted by more than 250 communities nationwide to fund arthritis research, health education and government advocacy initiatives.
Participants walk in honor of a friend or family member with arthritis. People with arthritis wear blue hats to signify their action in taking control of their condition. The event features a three- mile and one-mile course, with arthritis information and activities for the entire family.
For more information or to make a donation, visit www.ArthritisWalkRome.kintera.org.
