Walk will raise funds for scleroderma

The foundation says more than 20,000 Ohioans suffer from the disease.
BOARDMAN -- The 3rd annual Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma Fun Walk will be June 3 in Boardman Park.
The event begins at 9:30 a.m.; registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Last year, more than 300 walkers participated and this year's goal is 350.
All walkers and volunteers will be provided with refreshments and food throughout the day. There will be prize giveaways, a Chinese auction, 50/50 raffle, disc jockey, clowns and more.
There is a $10 entrance fee.
Scleroderma is an auto-immune disease and affects one out of five Americans, usually women in their early 20s, says the Scleroderma Foundation. The disease can be fatal because it provides complications to internal organs.
It is estimated that more than 20,000 Ohio citizens suffer from scleroderma, the foundation says.
Getting involved
Leni Schulz, co-leader of the Youngstown Scleroderma Support Group, said the walk is one of its most important fundraisers. Schulz became involved four years ago when her sister, Mariann Boyanowski, was diagnosed with scleroderma.
"The support group was formed to help the many people in the Valley who have this disease, and our walk will be a key aspect in continuing to serve our goal of finding a cure," Schulz said.
The walk is being hosted by the support group.
For more information about the Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma Fun Walk, contact Mariann at (330) 533-0552 or register online at www.scleroderma.org. To learn more about the disease, contact the local support group at (330) 799-8493 or call the Scleroderma Foundation's information line at (800)722-4673.