The Warsaw Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis was held Saturday, Dec. 8, and as of today the event has raised $13,100 for arthritis research, education and life improvement.

Ellis Coon accepts the award for being the top male finisher in the Arthritis Foundation’s recent Jingle Bell Run/Walk. (Photo provided)

This year’s Jingle Bell Run had 120 participants. The Arthritis Foundation also recognized 6-year old Katherine Alderfer, who was diagnosed with Juvenile Dermatomyositis in May 2010, as the Youth Honoree for the event. “It was wonderful to see so many people at the 4^th Annual Warsaw Jingle Bell Run/Walk who generously donated to this important cause,” said Marcy Hawkins, director of Special Events for the Arthritis Foundation’s Northern Indiana Office.  “We deeply appreciate all of the hard work put forth by our runners, walkers, sponsors and volunteers.”

Danita Keirn, left, poses with Katherine Alderfer at the recent Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis Foundation. Keirn was the top female finisher. (Photo provided)

Danita Keirn and Ellis Coon, both of Warsaw, were the overall female and male finishers in the 5K race. For official race results or to make a donation online, please visit our website at www.jbrwarsaw.org.

About the Arthritis Foundation Striking one in every five adults and 300,000 children, arthritis is the nation’s leading cause of disability. The Arthritis Foundation (www.arthritis.org) is committed to raising awareness and reducing the impact of this serious disease, which can severely damage joints and rob people of living life to its fullest.

The foundation funds life-changing research that has restored mobility in patients for more than six decades; fights for health care policies that improve the lives of the millions who live with arthritis; and partners with families to provide empowering programs and information.