For Saint John REALTOR® Amber Barteau, supporting a cause close to her heart meant travelling halfway around the world. Barteau was one of 38 Canadians who travelled to Lausanne, Switzerland this past year in an effort to raise funds and awareness for arthritis.
The Canadian participants raised over $260,000 through Joints in Motion, a fundraising program organized by the Canadian Arthritis Society. The program requires volunteers to raise a predetermined amount of money and train for a chosen event, such as running or cycling.
Barteau raised $6,500 on her own by hosting and participating in softball tournaments, hockey and television pools, collecting recyclables, and canvasing outside various retailers. In addition to the ten months she spent fundraising, she also dedicated many hours to keeping active in preparation for the half-marathon run.
“Someone very close to me suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, so I was looking for a way to support them,” said Barteau. “When I came upon the Joints in Motion program during my research I thought it would be a great way to raise awareness for the Arthritis Society.”
The Canadian Arthritis Society is the leader in Canada’s fight against this potentially crippling disease. They serve nearly 4.6 million Canadians each year by helping them cope with their condition while living well. A huge emphasis is placed on funding research in the hopes of a future without arthritis.
“The Joints in Motion program provided me with a great experience. I will never forget the moment when I crossed the finish line,” said Barteau. “I look forward to participating again and I’m already looking into options for 2014.”
Pictured: REALTOR® Amber Barteau, as she takes part in a half-marathon for the Joints in Motion program in Lausanne, Switzerland.
