Jingle Bell Run Returns to Northville Dec. 1

Honoring Metro-Detroit native Cathy Brown-Thomas, the Arthritis Foundation will host the Jingle Bell Run/Walk on Dec. 1 at 9 a.m. at Northville Downs in Northville. The Jingle Bell Run/Walk is a holiday-themed running and walking event that raises awareness and funds to support the fight against arthritis.

Jingle Bell Run/Walk participants dress in their favorite holiday costume and tie jingle bells to their shoes, resulting in a chorus of jingle rings. This family-friendly event includes a 5K run/walk with competitive timing, a kid’s quarter mile “Snowman Shuffle,” and post-race party with awards for the largest team, biggest fundraiser and most creative costume. Individuals or teams can sign up by calling (855) 529-2728 x 6604 or online at www.jinglebellrunnorthville.kintera.org.

As a young and vivacious woman planning for her wedding, Cathy Brown-Thomas never imagined that she’d get arthritis. After all, only “old and sick” people get arthritis…right? Her days were filled with excitement as she planned her wedding to Alun. Then she began to notice pain in her neck and shoulders. Cathy chalked it up to wedding stress, but Alun made her promise to see a doctor after the wedding.

Cathy’s condition became much worse following the wedding. At times, she couldn’t move without excruciating pain and needed help with simple tasks, like brushing her hair. After several physician exams and tests, Cathy was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

With medical treatment and help from the Arthritis Foundation, Cathy is managing her arthritis and living a much better life. As the Northville Jingle Bell Run/Walk honoree, Cathy wants to raise awareness about arthritis and let others know that help is available.

—The above information was provided in a press release.