Tasha McLeod was diagnosed with Lupus in 2011. Lupus is a chronic auto-immune disease with a variety of symptoms, caused by inflammation in one or more parts of the body. It is estimated that it affects tens of thousands of Canadians. Although Lupus is not contagious, it is a complex and baffling condition that can target any tissue or organ of the body, including the skin, muscles, joints, blood and blood vessels, lungs, heart, kidneys and the brain.
Tasha McLeod decided to raise funds for lupus awareness and research by starting a Lupus walk in Weyburn.
"This year was the first year for the walk in Weyburn and we had a great turn out considering the weather didn't really cooperate," said McLeod.
The walk was originally scheduled to take place at Riverside Park, but due to the rainy and windy weather, it was relocated to the Canalta Hotel.
In order to raise funds for the walk, the group held a barbeque on the deck at Co-op Foods. They held a Scentsy catalogue party as well as a raffle with tickets for a Ly Na Day Spa gift certificate and a Scentsy basket filled with of products. McLeod said they also sold bracelets at the walk, which were made by a Lupus patient.
"In total, we raised almost $5,000," said McLeod. "I just wanted to thank everyone who came out to support this great cause and wanted to thank the Co-op for donating the supplies for the barbecue."
For more information about Lupus, visit lupussk.com.