Port Coquitlam woman with arthritis to tackle marathon for The Arthritis Society
January 20, 2009 - Kelsey Chace of Port Coquitlam, BC, knows first hand that arthritis is more than "just a few aches and pains in old age." When she was 19, Kelsey was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, one of more than 100 types of arthritis that affect the lives of more than 600,000 people in BC and the Yukon.
"I was devastated!" says Kelsey who has been dancing professionally since she was 15 years old. "I had doctors telling me I would not be able to dance anymore and that I would need to find a new career."
In December, Kelsey is going to Barbados to complete a marathon through The Arthritis Society's Joints in Motion (JIM) fundraising program. With each step of the grueling 42-kilometre course, Kelsey hopes to raise awareness about arthritis and raise funds for arthritis research, education, advocacy and care.
"It has taken me 11 years to fully come to terms with my diagnosis, to accept the possible long term effects, and to understand my role in managing this disease," says Kelsey.
Since 1999, thousands of Canadians have participated in JIM to help improve the lives of people with arthritis through raising funds and awareness. These individuals (all volunteers) have been truly inspirational in their dedication and commitment.
"With the support of my friends and family and a lot of determination and hard work, I am still teaching dance and performing in live theatre, musicals, movies and television shows all over the world," says Kelsey.
Through pure will power and determination, Kelsey is devoting the next 11 months to training and raising $5600. "I finally want to be part of finding a cure for myself and for millions of others living with arthritis across Canada. The marathon is my first step."
For further information, contact:
Barbara Toccacelli
Director of Human Resources and Communications
Tel: 647.259.1175