J & I Hope Raisers Team Page

Hi

Keeping the passion alive - Need Your Assistance

WOW – What a year. I hope all is well with the family. I know it is tough on you and the family. Our lives have been turned upside down for sure. Covid vaccines are here and hopefully we can slow it down. Some of you have lost your jobs or have been reduced to less hours and I am sorry to hear. So, this year makes it tough to ask for your assistance.

For 43 years, the Scleroderma Foundation Michigan Chapter has hosted individuals with scleroderma, their loved ones and the greater community for a running and walking fundraiser called Stampede Scleroderma. The event not only increases scleroderma awareness, it funds the Michigan Chapter’s programs and three-fold mission of support, education and research.

While many have been counting down the days until this year’s June 5th event, we must put the health of patients and our community first as the last 2 years. We are planning to be at the Zoo in 2023.

The reason for fund raising has not changed and that is to raise awareness and a cure for Scleroderma.
We continue to inform patients -” Scleroderma is a treatable disease even though there is no cure”

The Scleroderma Foundation Michigan Chapter has been serving its members and patients for 46 years. We continue our efforts of awareness in the medical community, patients and the public about Scleroderma. We now have Patient Education seminars in Michigan. Our patients can also participate in a virtual support group and never have to leave home, which is hard for a lot of patients. Every year we are able to increase the money for research. With your help we can continue to serve the patients affected by Scleroderma.

Quick refresher course on What is Scleroderma?

Scleroderma is a chronic, often progressive autoimmune disease-like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis-in which the body’s immune systems attacks its own tissues. The disease, which literally means “hard skin” can cause thickening and tightening of skin, as well as serious damage to internal organs, including the lungs, heart, kidneys, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract. For some individuals, Scleroderma is a nuisance. For others, it is a life-threatening disease. For most people with Scleroderma, the disease has serious impact on daily life. And, although medications can sometimes help, there is no cure yet.

This is the only ask I do each year.

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for any help you can give. If you know of anyone else who would be interested in donating. If you have any questions, please feel free to call or write me. Also, if you know anybody who would like additional information on Scleroderma, they can reach out to me and I will help them obtain the information they are seeking. (Phone 586-719-0482)

Sincerely,

John Michalski and the Late Ilene Michalski