‘Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma’ Fundraiser Set for June 15 in Colorado

Continuing its longstanding support for patients while raising awareness and research funds, the Rocky Mountain chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation is presenting its 15th annual Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma fundraiser June 15 in Centennial, Colorado.

Hosted throughout the year by chapters nationwide, Stepping Out is the foundation’s signature effort to help defeat the chronic autoimmune disorder. Last year, some 9,000 participants at 55 walks raised more than $1 million. This year’s nationwide goal is $1.8 million.

In Colorado, the goals are 500 walkers and $50,000. So far, more than $15,000 has been raised. The event will be held at the 11-acre Centennial Center Park. Participant fees range from $35 to $100; family discounts are available.

The fundraiser involves walking a half-mile along paved trails. Participants are free to walk the route once or multiple times. There also will be balloon art, massage therapy, music, food, prize drawings, and goodie bags.

The event starts with a moment of silence for loved ones who have died from the disease. It will be followed by a pep rally for individuals and teams.

Go here to register as a team or individual, or to donate. After registration, participants are encouraged to design “How has scleroderma touched your life?” signs. For $15, the foundation will help design printed signs for posting in a designated park area. Prior to the walk, free digital versions of personalized signs may be used in fundraising emails or on social media.

Signs will include a registrant photo, plus a handprint in teal for patients, navy blue for those who have a loved one with scleroderma, and yellow for participants whose loved one died from the disease. For example, a sign by patient Sandee Maas has her photo, handprint, and five bulleted items about her condition, including “1 kidney transplant.”

To get a fundraising page set up, participants should register here.  Participants should also check with employers to see whether matching funds are available.

The participant toolbox includes suggestions for community fundraising (cookouts, wine party, car wash, or bake sale), sample templates for social media and fundraising emails, and tips on how to raise money. Awards will be given for top individual and team fundraisers.

Sponsors of the walk include Actelion Pharmaceuticals, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bayer, and Reata Pharmaceuticals.

Please visit this site for a nationwide listing of “Stepping Out” events.