What is your team name, and how did you come up with it?
(Jacob) The name of my team is the Nerd Herd. I thought it would be a catchy name, especially because I think I am kind of nerdy.
Why did you sign up for the Walk to Cure Arthritis?
(Jacob) I signed up for the Walk because I was feeling a little sad after I was diagnosed in September of 2013 . I have not been able to play outside as much as I used to. I miss riding my bike, my scooter or my skateboard. This gave me something to be excited about.
What are you looking forward to most at the Walk?
(Jacob) I look forward to meeting other kids my age with arthritis. I know it may sound crazy, but I really think that we can find a cure. Greater things have happened. I wish I could win the lottery to find a group of researchers from all over the world and just find a way to get rid of this. It's not fair that people, especially kids, have to live with this. I want to be able to run, skate, ride my bike, play baseball and water polo again.
What are your top three tips for families to fundraise?
(Jacob) My mom has been helping me by using social media like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. I have been talking to friends and schoolmates about it. Last, we plan on going to all of our local fire stations and talking about arthritis, and how it has affected my family and me. Hopefully we will get some new team members and raise some funds.
Name a great way to keep your child involved with fundraising.
(Mom) Jacob is very competitive, so that in itself has been his driving force. He is always checking the site, always reminding me to post on Facebook, and looks forward to talking to all of his dad's workmates at the local fire stations.
Why is it important to participate in the Walk to Cure Arthritis?
(Mom) It's important to raise funds first and foremost, but honestly, I look forward to meeting other parents and kids. I have felt very much alone because not many people seem to understand what rheumatoid arthritis is.
Why is it important to fundraise?
(Mom) The only way that all of these great programs will continue is with fundraising... It's not just about the research aspect of it, but everything else - website, information, literature, support, camps, conventions, etc. None of this would exist without raising money!
What do you say to potential donors to get them to donate/join your team?
(Mom) Honestly, I have to brag a little bit right now. Jake is a pretty awesome kid. So many of our friends and family have been devastated by the news of Jacob's diagnosis. There has been little to no hesitation to help this kid out. We have reached out to our Fire Community. Jacob's Dad has been with Cal Fire for over 20 years now, so reaching out to firefighters and their families has been nice.