Solon Economist
SOLON — The third annual Bone Dash 5k and Monster Mile run/walk event, raising money for the UI Health Care pediatric rheumatology support group, Joining Hands, will be held Saturday, October 5 at the Solon Recreation and Nature Area (SRNA).
The support group was started three years ago to help provide networking, support, and education for Iowa’s pediatric patients battling rheumatic disease. Rheumatic diseases encompass a broad range of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and disorders affecting the bones, muscles, joints, and even internal organs.
“Many people don’t realize that kids can be affected with autoimmune diseases such as arthritis, lupus and scleroderma too,” said Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) Courtney Kremer, of Solon. “The Bone Dash event helps bring awareness to the community.” Kremer and Research Coordinator Emma Leisinger started the event in 2022 to raise money for the support group and met with success that exceeded their expectations. “It took off way bigger than we expected it to for the first year,” said Kremer, “and our boss said, ‘Sign it up again.’ Last year we raised approximately $8,500 and nearly doubled our participants.” The support group uses the funds raised to hold quarterly gatherings and educational activities for patients and their families.
The organizers gratefully acknowledge donations from PepsiCo, the Solon Lions Club, Solon Beef Days, Cedar Rapids Kernels, The Iowa Children’s Museum, and The Bread Garden among others. Thanks to their generous support, there will be prizes for participants.
Kremer said, “We anticipate continued growth of the Bone Dash this year. The event is Halloween-themed and participants are encouraged to dress in costume. There will be two face painters this year, as well as Disney princesses and HERKY! Lots of candy, craft tables and photo backdrops will also be part of the fun.”
Details for the 3rd annual Bone Dash
Date – Saturday, October 5
Location – SRNA at the Timber Dome Lodge
Times – Both the 5k and 1 mile run/walk start at 10:00 a.m.
Registration – https://runsignup.com/Race/IA/ Solon/BoneDash5KMonsterMileFunRun
Participants can pick up their race packets Friday October 4 from 6-8:00 p.m. at the Timber Dome Lodge or prior to the run/walk on Saturday October 5, 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. NOTE: Day of registration is only available online. For more information – pedsrheumsupportgroup@ healthcare.uiowa.edu