2022 is Bruce's and Team Cowan’s 21st year Stepping Out in memory of Pat (June 22, 2000) and Beverly (June 21, 2001). With the support of our family and friends we have been able to accomplished so much over these years. Raising funds for research that have created treatments that were not available in the 90’s when Pat and Beverly were battling their scleroderma. We have heightened awareness to the public therefore helping newly diagnosed patients receive treatments sooner, offering better outcomes and quality of life. Our advocacy efforts (Bruce and Lindsay have walked the halls of congress) have brought about funding from the federal government of $5,000,000 for scleroderma research each of the last 3 years.
The past 12 months have been busy happy times for the Cowan family: Bruce retired from his role as the Tri-State Chapter Executive Director July 30, 2021 and moved in November to the Raleigh NC area. Lindsay welcomed Elizabeth into our family August 9, 2021 making Bruce a Grandfather and John's wedding was April 2, 2022 in Santa Barbara.
We will not be in attendance at the Manhattan walk this year, but as a family we continue to support the work of the chapter and the foundation which has continued to expand their efforts in research, support and awareness; more than doubling funds for research to $2.7 million last year, introducing Ashley Barron an upcoming country singer as our national ambassador and offering support to those impacted by this difficult disease in tradtional and innovative ways. It's the efforts and donations by you that have made all of this possible.
We are grateful for your support the past 21 years.
Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disease generally classified as one of the autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Scleroderma affects approximately 300,000 people in the United States, and women outnumber men as patients, four to one. The symptoms of Scleroderma vary greatly from individual to individual, and the effects of Scleroderma can range from very mild to life-threatening or fatal. The exact cause or causes of Scleroderma are still unknown, and there is no cure. The Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma Walk is our chance to make a difference in the fight against Scleroderma. Please join us in this fight as we raise money to help fund essential research; provide patient education and support; and raise public awareness.
Select “Donate Now” to donate.
Our sincerest Thank You in advance for your support.
XO Team Cowan
Bruce & Donna; Lindsay, Nick & Elizabeth; John, Katie & Jetty
