Toronto, Canada (April 26 2011) - It’s time to get walking! On Sunday, May 15, thousands of people in 24 communities across Canada will come together for The Arthritis Society’s Walk To Fight Arthritis, presented by the makers of TYLENOL®. All proceeds will be invested in vital arthritis research and programs for people living with arthritis.
“Last year’s inaugural walk was an outstanding success -- in fact, we had more than 3,000 people raise close to $1 million to fight arthritis,” says Steven McNair, President and CEO, The Arthritis Society. “This year’s Walk promises to be even more successful. Every little piece of support brings us closer to our ultimate goal of finding a cure.”
In addition to walking and raising funds through pledging, Canadians are encouraged to visit www.WalkToFightArthritis.ca to share their personal story of living with arthritis. For the first 2,000 approved stories shared, the makers of TYLENOL® will donate $10 per story, per person, towards helping find a cure.
“Arthritis affects both young and old -- in fact, of the four million Canadians who live with arthritis, nearly three in five are under the age of 65,” says Pat Smallcombe, Managing Director, Johnson & Johnson Inc. “That’s why we’re so proud to be involved in the cause to raise funds and help those struggling with this disease.”
A Chronic Concern Arthritis is the leading cause of pain and disability in North America1 and consists of more than 100 types.2 Most Canadians have been touched by the disease, whether they’re affected by arthritis themselves or are supporting a friend, family member or co-worker. The good news is that steps can be taken, including regular physical activity, such as walking, to manage and even reduce the pain and discomfort of this disease.3 Over-the-counter medications, like TYLENOL® Arthritis Pain, or prescription medications can also play a role in treatment. Anyone with arthritis should consult a healthcare provider about their treatment options.
Registration Is Now Open There are several events taking place across the country on Sunday, May 15, and all locations will offer both 1km and 5km Walk route options. Participants can choose the distance that’s right for them.
“Regardless of where they live, all Canadians can create their own Virtual Walk if their city or town is not listed,” said McNair. “Just gather a group of family, friends or co-workers, set your own route and register online for the virtual walk. It’s a great way to walk on your own schedule while still being eligible for the great incentive prizes.”
While there is no cost to register, participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of $100 in pledges. All participants who raise $100 or more will receive an official Walk to Fight Arthritis t-shirt on event day.
For details on the Walk, visit www.WalkToFightArthritis.ca and check out the Walk on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WalkToFightArthritis to connect with other walkers.
For more information on managing arthritis pain, visit www.arthritis.ca.
About The Arthritis Society
The Arthritis Society is Canada’s principal health charity empowering the more than four million Canadians with arthritis to live their lives to the fullest through extensive programs and services. Since its founding in 1948, The Society has invested more than $170 million in arthritis research to develop better treatments and, ultimately, find a cure.4 For more information, visit www.arthritis.ca.
About McNeil Consumer Healthcare
McNeil Consumer Healthcare markets a broad range of well-known and trusted over-the-counter (OTC) products around the globe. McNeil Consumer Healthcare, division of Johnson & Johnson Inc., markets products in the adult and pediatric pain relief, allergy, gastro-intestinal and nicotine-replacement categories under the brand names TYLENOL®, MOTRIN®, BENYLIN®, BENADRYL®, REACTINE®, PEPCID®, IMODIUM®, ROLAIDS®, NICORETTE® and NICODERM®. For more information, visit www.livingwell.ca.