Lupus News

January 2014

Regan Mizuno

Curling and lupus:
As the Winter Olympics approach, lupus patient shares her passion for curling

by Regan Mizuno

Lupus and curling: you wouldn't necessarily think of them as a match, would you? But I've found that the sport has been one of the best things that has happened to me, and has changed my life for the better.

And I'm so proud to share this passion to help raise awareness about another huge part of my life, lupus, by hosting the inaugural "Lupus 'Spiel USA" Pro-Am tournament (or "bonspiel") the weekend of May 2-4 at the Four Seasons Curling Club in Blaine. The event is designed to raise awareness of lupus and support for the Lupus Foundation of Minnesota.

To start, personally, my lupus involves the kidneys ...

Introducting Sandy Parnell, LFM's Director of Education

We are pleased to announce that Sandy Parnell, MSW, has joined our Client Service staff at the Lupus Foundation of Minnesota in the role of Director of Education.

Sandy comes to LFM after 23 years at the School of Social Work at St. Catherine University/University of St. Thomas and brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge of the nonprofit sector, gained from professional roles as an educator, social worker and community builder.

Sandy Parnell, LFM Director of Education

LFM offers summer fellowship program for college students

Since 1981, the Lupus Foundation of Minnesota has provided college-age students with the unique opportunity to partner with accomplished researchers at local institutions working on lupus-related autoimmune research. To date, support from individual donors has provided over $379,000 to provide 110 fellows with the opportunity to work on vital research efforts aimed at improved detection, treatment and a cure.

Applications are being accepted now for this summer's fellowships at the University of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic. The deadline to apply for a 2014 Student Summer Fellowship is 8:30 a.m. on Monday, April 14.

Volunteer position: Lupus Ambassador

Volunteer as a "face" and "voice" of lupus -- lending your story to Foundation events, especially the Lupus Walk for Hope and 5K Run events. It's an opportunity to connect with others to help fundraise and raise awareness of lupus and LFM, while being a rewarding experience for you too.

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more or wishes to be considered for this role, please complete the volunteer application and return it to LFM by February 14, along with a brief statement about why you'd be a good Lupus Ambassador.

Upcoming events (click the links for additional information)

February 5: Chi-Gung for Your Health - For You
Join us for a four-class introductory series in the art of Chi-Gung. Chi-Gung is a centuries-old form of meditative exercise. Originating in China, Chi-gung grounds the mind in the body, increases self-awareness, builds internal energy and helps to develop a more flexible body, both physically and spiritually.

February 21: Charlas sobre Lupus (Spanish speaking group)
Las Charlas de Lupus se realizan mensualmente y son una oportunidad para quienes padecen lupus
(u otras condiciones cr�nicas), y las personas que los asisten para conectarse con otros y conversar de temas relacionados con la salud y el diario vivir con una afecci�n cr�nica.

Whet your appetite for the Lupus Food & Wine Classic

Anyone who loves fine food, wine and entertainment will be right at home at the fourth annual Lupus Food and Wine Classic, slated for Wednesday, May 7 at the Mall of America. Ticket sales start next week.

Contact LFM today for additional involvement, including sponsorship and volunteer opportunities or donating to the food- and wine-themed auction.

2014 Lupus Walk for Hope and 5K Run dates announced

Mark your calendars for the annual Walk/5K fundraisers in three cities:

Twin Cities: September 13
Rochester: September 27
Duluth: October 4

Look for more details soon!

Lupus Foundation of Minnesota
The Atrium Suite 135
2626 East 82nd Street
Bloomington, MN 55425

Phone: 952-746-5151
Toll-Free: 1-800-645-1131
Email: info@lupusmn.org

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