Living with AS

Celebrate National Arthritis Month

May is National Arthritis Month, a time when people across the country will be participating in a number of events to raise awareness and raise funds in the fight against arthritis.

Each year the Arthritis Foundation sponsors the Arthritis Walk^SM. This event attracts thousands of participants from all over the nation. It is an opportunity for people with arthritis and their friends, family, and colleagues to literally take steps to prevent, control and cure America’s number one cause of disability.

Walk locations are dispersed throughout the country. Once you find an Arthritis Walk^SM near you, you can choose to participate in either the 3-mile or 1-mile course. You may sign up individually or as a team. Recruit family and friends to support the cause. Together you can share a great day and offer encouragement to each other while bringing to light the issues faced by over 66 million people living with various forms of arthritis or chronic joint symptoms, including rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

During the walk, men, women, and children with arthritis wear special blue “hero” hats. As you walk the route, you can stop at the “Wall of Heroes” to share your own inspirational stories, as well as those of loved ones living with arthritis.

Help yourself and others who have taken control of their arthritis. By joining a team or walking on your own, you’ll be contributing your time and energy as part of National Arthritis Month. Plus, walking is good exercise. Just be sure to consult with your rheumatologist before you decide to sign up for the walk. If your rheumatologist feels the walk may be too strenuous for you at this time, don’t hesitate to come by and join the cheering crowds and offer support to other participants, especially your friends and family. Share your experiences at the Wall of Heroes, and lend encouragement to others just like you.

You can look forward to upcoming articles on topics that matter most to you, including nutrition, fitness, stress management, and much more.