Sloan Siblings Stomping Out JRA!

 Sloan Siblings 2011 Team

The past few months were long, busy days as we prepared for Lakeland's arthritis walk.  But as May 7 came-- it was worth every effort we each put into the 2011 "Let's Move Together Arthritis Walk".  I am so proud of Jake & Hannah for helping to recruit friends from school, church, dance classes and family.  The Sloan Siblings team was the largest team and raised over $7,000.  A special Thanks to Law Offices of Burnetti, P.A. and The Sports Section for sponsoring Jake and Hannah and providing all our team walkers with shirts.  It was incredible to look around and see all the yellow shirts supporting the "Sloan Siblings". It was one of Jake and Hannah's best days! Our family was humbled at the support that was given to Jake and Hannah.

Arthritis has not only affected our family, but has also affected 46 million Americans, including 300,000 children. Arthritis is the #1 leading cause of disability in the USA.   Did you know that 1 in 3 Floridians are living with at least 1 of the 100 types of arthritis, and it is life-threatening in many cases?  The generous donations made by family and friends will be used to help further the mission of the Arthritis Foundation which is to improve lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases.  Eighty three percent of every dollar goes directly into research.  Without the support from family and friends- we would not be able to hold on to hope that better treatment options will be available for adults and children suffering from arthritis and related auto-immune diseases.

It was my pleasure to serve as Lakeland's walk chair and work under the leadership of Tony Ward- Community Development Director of Central Florida. I am most proud of our Lakeland walk committee. Each and every person contributed in some way or another. It is difficult to do the extra things when we are struggling to take care of ourselves or children who have chronic health conditions as well. But the Lakeland walk committee did it!! We pulled together and it was the BEST walk ever!! Each committee member  touched my heart and with their support made 2011 Arthritis Walk successful in Lakeland, Fl.