LOS ANGELES, CA–(Marketwired – September 27, 2015) – Hollywood stars of television turned out to shed light on the cruel mystery that is lupus and raise critically needed funds for research and education programs during the Lupus Foundation of America’s (Foundation) Walk to End Lupus Now™, in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 26, 2015. Walk to End Lupus Now Grand Marshal Ian Harding, star of ABC Family’s Pretty Little Liars and long-time lupus activist, rallied a crowd of thousands of participants at Exposition Park.
Harding, whose mother has lupus, was joined by actress/singer TiChina Arnold, current star of the STARZ’ Network series Survivors Remorse, who performed at the opening ceremonies. Special guest Margaret Avery of BET’s Being Mary Jane also attended the event.
“I’m honored to support the Lupus Foundation of America and truly grateful for the overwhelming support I have received from my fans over the last few years,” said Harding. “Raising funds for lupus research is vital, and I will continue to do my part so that together we can create a future with no lupus.”
Back again this year as event co-emcees were Kathy Vara, NBC4 Co-Anchor, NBC4 Weekend News, and Whit Johnson, NBC4 Co-Anchor, Today in LA. NBC4Southern California is the media sponsor for the LA Walk, which was overflowing with people wearing purple, the signature color for lupus, and t-shirts filled with names of family and loved ones affected by lupus.
LA Walk to End Lupus Now was also made possible with the generous support of AstraZeneca, Genentech and Mallinckrodt pharmaceuticals. To make a donation, or learn more, visit walktoendlupus.org/losangeles.
About Lupus
Lupus is an unpredictable and misunderstood autoimmune disease that ravages different parts of the body. It is difficult to diagnose, hard to live with and a challenge to treat. Lupus is a cruel mystery because it is hidden from view and undefined, has a range of symptoms, strikes without warning, and has no known cause and no known cure. Its health effects can range from a skin rash to a heart attack. Lupus is debilitating and destructive and can be fatal, yet research on lupus remains underfunded relative to diseases of similar scope and devastation.
About the Lupus Foundation of America
The Lupus Foundation of America is the only national force devoted to solving the mystery of lupus, one of the world’s cruelest, most unpredictable and devastating diseases, while giving caring support to those who suffer from its brutal impact. Through a comprehensive program of research, education, and advocacy, we lead the fight to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus. Learn more about the Lupus Foundation of America at lupus.org. For the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
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