Run raises money for arthritis

Silver bells were ringing in downtown Columbia on Saturday as participants in the Jingle Bell Run made their way through the city streets.

About 250 people braved freezing temperatures and attached jingle bells to their shoelaces as they took part in the 16th annual 5K run/walk organized by the Arthritis Foundation.

Event coordinator Carol Mitchell said the run raised $14,500 for the foundation. The money will benefit arthritis research, education and financial assistance to some arthritis sufferers.

“We provide up to $500 in durable medical equipment or medicine to low-income individuals,” Mitchell said.

Amy Marek had special reason to participate in the event. Marek’s sister, Kim Adam, died of complications caused by rheumatoid arthritis in October. In memory of her sister, Marek organized a team of 36 participants made up of Adam’s family, friends and co-workers to raise money for the cause.

Marek said her sister had walked in the Jingle Bell Run every year since it began in Columbia.

Jogger Mike Morris was not on a team, but that didn’t stop him from appreciating the run.

“I enjoy running on my own, but I particularly enjoy it when it’s for a good cause,” Morris said.

Beth Richards, who manages the arthritis and osteoporosis program for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, said one in every three Missouri residents suffers from arthritis. Arthritis affects 70 million Americans and is the number one cause of debilitation in Missouri.

Early detection is key in managing the pains caused by arthritis. Richards said blood work can be done to test for the disease and results typically come back in a week.

Arthritis is a general term for a group of more than 100 diseases. The common factor in all cases is joint inflammation. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling and difficulty moving.