News release Public Information Office  SLU 10880   Hammond, LA 70402   phone: 985-549-2341   fax: 985-549-2061 publicinfo@selu.edu Spring 2004 news releases Public Information home News archive Contact: Christina Chapple Date: 4/15/05   ANNUAL ARTHRITIS BENEFIT WALK TO BE HELD AT SOUTHEASTERN APRIL 30        HAMMOND – A Southeastern Louisiana University communication class has partnered with the Arthritis Advocates of Louisiana to sponsor the organization’s annual “Team Up for Arthritis” 5K walk to benefit arthritis patients.        The walk will begin at 9 a.m., Saturday, April 30, at North Oak Park, located on Southeastern’s north campus. The donation to walk is $20 per person, which includes a T-shirt. Children under six years of age can walk for free. Event sponsorships are also available.         Bridget Adams, one of the students enrolled in Communication 465 (Public Relations Campaigns) taught by communication assistant professor Carol Madere, said the event will begin with a “Richard Simmons-style” warm-up for participants. After the walk, participants are invited to stay for free food, drinks and entertainment, as well as a health fair and door prizes.         Adams said the Arthritis Advocates for Louisiana is the only non-profit organization in Louisiana dedicated to helping arthritis patients and their families. One out of every three people in Louisiana has some form of arthritis, including over 5,000 children. Half of all arthritis sufferers are under age 55. There are also over 100 forms of arthritis, and the disease costs the United States $82 billion a year.        “All the money raised from this event stays in the local area to assist in providing programs and services,” Adams said.         To participate in the walk, become a sponsor, or get more information about arthritis, call 225-761-8230.