(Photo provided)
Arthritis can affect anyone—from young children to the elderly—yet it garners less attention and less research funding than many other ailments.
Phil Small, a REALTOR® with Sutton Group—Heritage Realty Inc., was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis nearly 25 years ago and understands the daily challenges. He was proud to brave the wind and rain on June 4 to raise money and awareness in his local Walk to Fight Arthritis. This REALTOR® donated/collected $750, which contributed to the national total of $1.25 million for the Arthritis Society.
“I decided to get involved because I have struggled to manage my rheumatoid arthritis for nearly 25 years,” Phil said. “It feels good to do something proactive to better not only my own circumstance, but the quality of life of many other people.”
More than 4.6 million Canadians live with arthritis and, in severe cases, it can prevent them from doing basic tasks such as driving a car or buttoning up a shirt. The proceeds of the Walk to Fight Arthritis will help to fund programs and research.
Although it was rainy and foggy, about 100 people took part in the Peterborough walk. Phil was joined by his wife Erin and their dog Murphy, who he calls his two greatest supporters. Buffeted by wind and rain, they completed the route in “record time” to seek a warm, dry spot.
Phil encourages others to consider joining in next year as he said it is always rewarding. This year, more than 8,000 people came together in 41 communities across the country to participate in the walk.
This story was adapted – with permission – from one originally featured on the Sutton Spirit website. The Sutton Spirit program recognizes Sutton associates across Canada that improve and enhance the lives of the people around them.
