SERVING ARIZONA, GREATER CALIFORNIA, HAWAII & NEVADA fall/winter 2012
Honors
danny glover
Actor, Producer, Humanitarian
&
Scott F. Kavanaugh
C.E.O. of First Foundation Bank • Change Lives Through Research, Programs and Advocacy • Get Moving for a Cure
The mission of the Arthritis Foundation is to improve lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases. Call 1.800.954.CURE (2873) or visit arthritis.org.
Leadership Perspectives ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION PACIFIC REGION Board of Directors OFFICERS E. Robert Harris, M.D. Chair Peter Mainstain, C.P.A. Chair-Elect Stephen A. Schneider, Esq. Treasurer John A. Heydt, M.D. Secretary Manuel Loya Chief Executive Officer BOARD MEMBERS Susan Beat Leroy Bobbitt, Esq. Robyn Browning Jimmy Chow, M.D. Dennis M.P. Ehling Art Gladstone Deborah McCurdy, M.D. Wesley Mizutani, M.D., M.B.A. Marcia W. Wasserman LIFE BOARD MEMBERS T. Arthur Kvaas Philip S. Magaram, Esq. Mark E. Meyerson, Esq. Thomas R. Murphy Stanford K. Rubin, Esq. Leonard Unger, Esq. ADVISORY BOARD CHAIRS Kaleo Ede, M.D. Arizona Vacant Coachella Valley Art Gladstone, R.N. Hawaii David Hahn Inland Empire Dale Surowitz Los Angeles/Valley Timothy Jones, C.S.P., R.E.H.S. Nevada John A. Heydt, M.D. Orange County Evan Mathew Greater Sacramento Valley Susan Beat San Diego Angela Roach, Esq. Santa Barbara
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Message from the Chair As my term as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Pacific Region is coming to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your generous support of our mission, and to share some of the highlights of the past three years. Organization and Governance: The Pacific Region was formed in 2010 and now serves almost 6 million people with arthritis in Greater California, Arizona, Hawaii and Nevada. Regionalization has helped us to efficiently manage resources to deliver our mission to the ever-increasing number of people with arthritis. Communication between volunteers and staff throughout the region and with our National organization has never been stronger. We are a unified organization dedicated to making the pain and limitations of arthritis unacceptable. Research: Many grants have been awarded to outstanding researchers who are working on treatments that will enhance quality of life and lead to a cure for arthritis. Funding of fellowships for pediatric and adult rheumatologists also has helped address the growing number of arthritis patients needing specialized care. As one of the benefits of regionalization, this year the Pacific Region received an all-time-high appropriation of research funding for our deserving local research physicians. Advocacy: Our volunteer-driven advocacy efforts are among the strongest in the country. We are working hard on behalf of those with arthritis to educate legislators about arthritis and the urgent need for greater health care access. We currently have one Senate Bill and four Assembly Bills on the table for legislative approval. Patient Education and Programs: Our certified aquatic, exercise, Tai Chi and Walk with Ease programs have changed the lives of thousands of patients with arthritis. We are also making progress in addressing the needs of underserved populations within our region. Marketing and Communications: The Ad Council multimedia public service advertising campaign and support of celebrity spokespeople have boosted awareness of the Foundation and our mission to new heights. Our focus on interactive communications will continue this positive trend. Thank you for your valued support of our mission. Our dedicated volunteer leadership and talented staff are working hard to ensure that your donation continues to make a significant difference in the lives of the millions we serve. —E. Robert Harris, M.D.
Message from the C.E.O. Thanks to your generous support, many exciting developments have improved the lives of those with arthritis in the Pacific Region. You will learn about this year’s outstanding advances in advocacy, research, and program delivery in this issue of HEADLINES. I’m extremely excited about 2013, because in 2013, our world will change. The Arthritis Foundation is embarking on a national quest to radically increase the number of people we serve. We are no longer talking about expanding our outreach to those with arthritis; we are taking action to touch each and every one with arthritis. Our goal is to provide them with life-enhancing information and resources to help them deal with the unacceptable pain and disability of arthritis. This is a lofty goal, but not impossible. The Arthritis Foundation has mobilized our resources to reach millions of constituents beginning in 2013, and we will do so. Your support of our urgent and relentless march to improve the lives of millions of people with arthritis is more important than ever. If you find it in your heart to support our mission, feel free to reach out to our staff and volunteers or go online to give at whatever your comfort level might be. Every penny counts. We are at a critical milestone in the Foundation’s history, and we need your help more than ever. Thank you for your continuing support of our exciting new direction in 2013 and beyond. I look forward to sharing more exciting achievements with you in the next issue of HEADLINES. —Manuel Loya
RESEARCH: YOUR DOLLARS AT WORK HEADLINES Celebrates The Career And Contributions of Bevra H. Hahn, M.D. Few people in the history of arthritis research and treatment have had the impact and success of Dr. Bevra H. Hahn, recently retired professor of medicine and chief of the Division of Rheumatology of the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles. In a distinguished career that has spanned almost 50 years, this internationally-recognized academic researcher, clinician, author and industry leader has worked tirelessly to alleviate the suffering and find a cure for arthritis. As Professor of Medicine, Dr. Hahn headed research groups that studied immune abnormalities that cause systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and developed interventions that help restore the immune response to normal. She also led a group that studied problems in patients with SLE, including atherosclerosis, and potential therapies and clinical trials. In addition to research, Dr. Hahn provided clinical consultations for patients with rheumatic diseases, taught rheumatology courses, and led the Division of Rheumatology faculty, fellows, students, post-doctoral trainees and administrative staff. Dr. Hahn is a leader in the field of rheumatology. She served as president of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) in 1999-2000. In 2009, Dr. Hahn received the Presidential Gold Medal award, the highest honor bestowed by the ACR in recognition of outstanding achievements in rheumatology over an entire career. She also has been recognized by rheumatology societies in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, China, South Korea, the Philippines, Argentina and Chile. Her research and other work in the field have been published in countless medical journals. Dr. Hahn has volunteered for the Arthritis Foundation at both local and national levels for decades. During that time, she received numerous awards for her volunteer service and leadership, including the prestigious National Volunteer Service Citation in Medicine and Sciences. Given her extraordinary experience and achievements, HEADLINES was honored to sit down with Dr. Hahn to discuss her career and the challenges she sees going forward. As with so many leaders, mentors such as parents and teachers played a key role in guiding Dr. Hahn. “I was raised in Columbus, Ohio, the daughter of a professional athlete and an elementary school teacher. I went to Ohio State and got my B.S. in Microbiology and then went on to earn my M.D. from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. I trained in Internal Medicine at Washington University in St. Louis and in Rheumatology at Johns Hopkins. In addition to my parents’ emphasis on education, I especially remember the influences of Dr. Mary Betty Stevens and Dr. Lawrence Shulman. Together they excited me and many other medical students about the need to care for and better understand people with rheumatic diseases.” Asked to talk about her illustrious career and what in the field most excites her today, Dr. Hahn zeroed in on SLE. “That is my passion, research-wise, and one of the highlights was probably discovering that regulatory white blood cells can be activated to prevent or suppress lupus-like autoimmunity.” She added, “Ongoing research is critical. However, the low level of funding for medical science is increasingly a problem. Perhaps the biggest challenge we face is our overall ignorance regarding cure and prevention of rheumatic disease. Although care is better, survival greater, and disability less with our current treatments — especially the biologics — in Rheumatoid Arthritis, SLE, ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile chronic arthritis and vasculitis, we have a long way to go to reach prevention and a cure.” Given her intimate knowledge of what it takes to succeed in the face of scientific and financial challenges, HEADLINES asked what words of encouragement Dr. Hahn would like to share with you. She responded, “Keep up the fight! We need your support now more than ever. We are dogged in our march toward cure and prevention. The Arthritis Foundation is dedicated to this cause. With ongoing intensive research, training of new investigators, and support of patients and the public, together we will find those cures.” —Joseph R. Scaccia
Congratulations to Arthritis foundation Pacific Region Research Grant Recipients Suzanne Kafaja, M.D. University of California, Los Angeles Clinical to Research Transition Award “Effect of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors on Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis”
Zejin Zhu, M.D. University of California, Los Angeles UCLA Postdoctoral Fellowship Award “Cyclosporine A Effect on Corneal DC: A Novel Mechanism in Sjögren’s Syndrome”
CALENDAR September September 9 Taste of the Town Santa Barbara, CA September 9-16 (8-day ride) September 15-16 (2-day ride) Amgen California Coast Classic Bike Tour September 19 Massage Envy “Healing Hands for Arthritis” September 21 Terry Fator’s “Voices for a Cure” Las Vegas, NV October October 12 World Arthritis Day October 20 Arthritis in PrimeTime Symposium Long Beach, CA October 25 “Commitment to a Cure” Awards Gala Beverly Hills, CA October 27 Desert Arthritis Walk Palm Desert, CA December December 2 Orange County Jingle Bell Run Laguna Niguel, CA December 9 Los Angeles Jingle Bell Run Glendale, CA December 15 San Diego Jingle Bell Run San Diego, CA
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PROGRAMS AND ADVOCACY: YOUR DOLLARS AT WORK Summer Youth Camps: A Life-Changing Experience for Youth with Arthritis Nearly 300 kids and teens with arthritis and related diseases made lifetime memories and friendships at this summer’s youth camps. Campers from Arizona, California, Hawaii and Nevada enjoyed fun and educational activities in safe, medically-supervised environments designed to build self-esteem and independence. Camp Mana'olana: Oahu, Hawaii
In June, youth at Camp Mana'olana enjoyed a variety of activities including a private, behind-the-scenes tour of the Honolulu Zoo, movie night, and a healthy cooking workshop with Executive Chef Ronnie Nasuti of Tiki’s Restaurant. In addition to the tasty food, the restaurant presented the campers with a generous check for the Arthritis Foundation. The children also enjoyed aquatics exercises in the mornings and took part in educational sessions on nutrition, arthritis and living with arthritis. Former camper, Ryan Ariola, returned to Camp Mana'olana this year as a Junior Leader. With his arthritis now in remission, Ryan shared his experiences of growing up with arthritis and formed a special bond with the teenage campers.
Camp Cruz: Williams, Arizona The “Spy” theme this June at Camp Cruz set the tone for plenty of fun-filled activities. Campers enjoyed horseback riding, sports, arts and crafts, gardening, a camp dance, and even a messy food fight with pediatric rheumatologist and acting board chair, Dr. Kaleo Ede. Camp Esperanza at The Painted Turtle: Lake Hughes, California and Camp Esperanza – Teen Leadership Camp: Big Bear, California Camp Esperanza offered two locations geared toward helping kids build their self-esteem and sense of acceptance. The Lake Hughes location served kids ages 7-16, while the Big Bear camp focused on leadership building for teens ages 15-17. Both camps provided abundant opportunities for fun with boating, fishing, swimming, archery, horseback riding, a ropes course and more. Joint Adventure Camp: Julian, California Drawing kids from the greater San Diego area and as far away as Massachusetts, Joint Adventure Camp became the “happiest place on earth” for campers ages 8 to 17 this summer. The kids enjoyed pushing their limits on a rock wall, early morning swims in the lake, archery and horseback riding. Other memorable events included a luau, a water carnival and a pillow case decorating party. When it came time to say goodbye for the summer, many campers had difficulty saying farewell to the close friends they had made. To volunteer or to make a donation to send a child to camp next summer, please contact the following Arthritis Foundation staff: Camp Cruz, Arizona Allie Avishai aavishai@arthritis.org
Camp Esperanza, CA Jennifer Ziegler jziegler@arthritis.org
Camp Joint Adventure, CA Sandra Hayhurst shayhurst@arthritis.org
Camp Mana'olana, Hawaii Jennifer Hee jhee@arthritis.org
ADVOCACY: OUR VOICES WERE HEARD! On June 28, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), ensuring more people with arthritis will have access to high-quality and affordable health care. The Court also ruled on the constitutionality of the Medicaid expansion. An official response to the Court’s decision is available for your information at arthritis.org/affordable-care-ruling-2012.php. August was Advocacy Month in the Pacific Region! Arthritis Foundation volunteer advocates and staff visited elected officials to bring awareness to federal and state health issues impacting people with arthritis. Federal priorities: 1) Gain co-sponsors for Patients’ Access to Therapies Act of 2012 (H.R. 4209) 2) Add new members to the Arthritis Caucus 3) Make arthritis a national public health priority 4) Support increased research funding, and 5) Work to cap out-of-pocket expenses for patients needing high-cost arthritis biologic medications (HR 4209) Raise your hands against arthritis by signing up to be an e-advocate at arthritis.org/inside-advocacy
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PROGRAMS: YOUR DOLLARS AT WORK New Offerings for a Healthier Life from the Arthritis Foundation Walk with Ease A recently-issued report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that 62% of adults were walking at least 10 minutes at a time at least one day a week in 2010, an increase of 6 percentage points from five years ago. Among people with arthritis, the increase was about 4 percentage points. This trend is a positive one, as walking and other physical activity can reduce pain and improve function and quality of life for those with arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk with Ease program is a great place to start. The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk with Ease program is designed especially for people with arthritis and other chronic conditions. It can teach you how to safely make physical activity part of your everyday life by providing support, information and online tools and products (such as a pedometer and walking log) to help you succeed. Materials are available in English and Spanish, and can be found on arthritis.org/wwe. Stay tuned for Walk With Ease exercise/ stretching online videos this Fall. Walk with Ease programs have been launched throughout the Pacific Region. Please contact your local Arthritis Foundation office to find out about the programs in your community. Online Arthritis Self-Management Program Thanks to funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Arthritis Foundation is partnering with the National Council on Aging to bring the Online Arthritis Self-Management Program to consumers with arthritis. The online program, which has been studied and proven effective by Stanford University, provides consumers the opportunity to learn arthritis self-management skills in a six-week, online workshop along with 25 other participants. The curriculum includes pain management techniques, dealing with difficult emotions, evaluating treatment plans and more. To learn more about the workshop, please visit arthritis.org/betterhealth. CDC Grant Supports Partnership Development in California The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently awarded the State of California a five-year “State Public Health Approaches to Improving Arthritis Outcomes” grant. The grant supports partnership development to increase awareness of the importance of physical activity (PA) and self-management (SM), increase access to PA and SM evidence-based interventions, and implement strategies to reinforce and support healthful behaviors of those with arthritis.
Reducing Health Disparities Through Outreach to Underserved Consumers Move More, Feel Great!: Life with Arthritis is a new educational program which targets the “When I started the program, African-American audience and focuses on arthritis, diabetes, and physical activity. This program is I was developed afraid to walk very being infarpartnership with the American Diabetes Association, and will be piloted in because of my knee Los Angeles thispain. fall.But
Walk With Ease helped me start slow and build up gradually. For Now more information I am confident in myon arthritis in African Americans, visit arthritis.org/arthritis-in-african-americans.php. ability to walk easily without making my arthritis worse.”
Life-enhancing information on arthritis and Arthritis Foundation resources can be found — Walk With Ease participant on the arthritis.org Spanish-language website, arthritis.org/espanol.
The Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease Program is a exercise program that can reduce pain and improve overall health. If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you can have success with Walk With Ease.
Young Adults Connect at PrimeTime and Get More Out of Life Benefits to You
Walk With Ease will help you: Motivate yourself to get in great shape Walk safely and comfortably Improve your flexibility, strength and stamina
On October 20, the Arthritis Foundation will host its third annual PrimeTime symposium at the Long Beach Renaissance Hotel in Long Beach, California.
AF Aquatic Program Leader Training Thursday, November 10, 2011 8:00am-5:00pm The Villages at Carver Family YMCA 1600 Pryor Rd. SW Atlanta, GA 30315 Cost: $100/per person for 8 weeks
This year’s program, “Let’s Connect”, will help attendees focus on establishing, Classes are one-hour each. Three times per week for six weeks. growing and maintaining healthy relaSpace is Limited.while Sign up today. tionships living with arthritis. Industry experts and advocates will provide inCall 800-283-7800 or visit www.arthritis.org sights on topics including dating, intimacy, pregnancy, parenting, communication, family dynamics and more. Featured speaker Jeffrey Gottfurcht, the first person with rheumatoid arthritis to ever climb Mt. Everest, will share his inspiring story. For more information or to register, please visit ArthritisInPrimeTime.org. Reduce pain and feel great
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moving together for a cure Walking for a Cure: Arthritis Walks Once again our annual Arthritis Walks have proven to be some of our most important and successful fund raising events of the year. This spring, the various walks in the Pacific Region raised nearly $2 million, which is more than double the amount raised by any other region. The Orange County Walk was especially successful this year. Its aggressive fund raising efforts and extensive volunteer network helped it claim the honor of the nation’s number one walk. Orange County attributes its success to the Orthopaedic Specialty Institute raising over $170,000 to become the number one team in the country, their honorees surpassing their goals of raising $25,000 or more, and their board having 100% participation in the event. Hawaii also distinguished itself this year with its Walk raising more sponsorship funds than any other event in the nation, and generating a 100%+ increase over the prior year’s revenue. With every single board member participating in the Walk, it’s no surprise Hawaii had such a strong showing this year. All walks were led by strong volunteer committees, sponsors, team captains, participants and volunteers. We could not have had such a successful walk season without the dedication of all these individuals. Register online today for the Halloween-themed Coachella Valley Arthritis Walk on Saturday, October 27 at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park in Palm Desert, California. Visit cvarthritiswalk.org or call 760.773.3076 for more information. Thank you to our walk sponsors! National Sponsors
Local Sponsors
Riding Highway One for a Cure: California Coast Classic Bike Tour sponsored by Amgen With an achievable fund raising goal of nearly $1 million and over 200 riders, this year’s California Coast Classic Bike Tour sponsored by Amgen promises to be one of the most successful events ever! Over the past 11 years, this eight-day, 525-mile bike tour from San Francisco to Los Angeles has raised over $10 million to support research, education and advocacy for people living with arthritis. The Tour began on Sunday, September 9 and concluded on Sunday, September 16. This year’s Bike Tour featured two distinguished adult honorees: Dr. Robert C. Klapper, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Group and CoDirector of the Joint Replacement Program at Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedic Center, and Lynda Huey, M.S., Owner/C.E.O. of CompletePT Pool & Land Physical Therapy. The Arthritis Foundation also named ten deserving children with arthritis to serve as youth honorees for the Tour. They shared their inspiring stories with riders as they cycled southward along the gorgeous California coastline. For information on how you can support this important event, visit CaliforniaCoastClassic.org.
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MAKING a difference for a cure Running for a Cure: Jingle Bell Run/Walk® for Arthritis Get in the spirit of the holiday season at the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk® for arthritis! The Jingle Bell Run/Walk® is a fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others. The event was recently ranked as one of the “21 Most Incredible Themed Races” on Greatist.com. This December, be one of the thousands of runners and walkers who don holiday-themed costumes and tie jingle bells to their shoe laces at the Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego Jingle Bell Run/Walks:
Orange County
December 2 Laguna Niguel, CA Contact: Laura Ouimet 949.585.0201 Ext. 504
ocjinglebellrun.org
Los angeles
December 9 Glendale, CA Contact: Debbie Martin 323.954.5760 Ext. 262
LAJBR.org
San diego
December 15 San Diego, CA Contact: Nancy Coate 858.492.1090 Ext. 112
sandiegojinglebellrun.org
Terry Fator Lights Up the Stage in “Voices for a Cure” Las Vegas headliner, “America’s Got Talent” winner, and longtime Arthritis Foundation ambassador Terry Fator once again supported the Foundation by hosting a benefit show at The Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas on September 21. Event attendees saw Terry perform his world-famous show while providing critical support for the Arthritis Foundation. As an accomplished performer, Terry Fator captures the hearts and funny bones of audiences from around the world with Terry Fator: Ventriloquism in Concert live at The Mirage. With comedy, celebrity singing impressions and unparalleled ventriloquism, all backed by a live band, he brings to life a hilarious range of characters including Winston, the impersonating turtle; Emma Taylor, the little girl with the big voice; and the newest addition, lounge singer Monty Carlo.
Great food for a great cause – 31st annual Taste of the Town Over 80 fine local restaurants and Central Coast wineries came together in Santa Barbara on September 9 for this year’s annual Taste of the Town, benefiting the Arthritis Foundation. The Taste of the Town has grown to become Santa Barbara’s signature culinary event, attracting over 1,000 foodies last year. Sponsors and their V.I.P. guests savored the Connoisseurs’ Circle Pavilion in which Gary Menes, Cuisinier for Le Comptoir in Los Angeles, designed a unique sit-down meal for discriminating gourmets. Thank you to the following sponsors for making this signature culinary event a huge success!
Automotive Sponsor
Healing Hands for Arthritis This year’s Healing Hands for Arthritis event was held on September 19 at Massage Envy locations nationwide. During the annual one-day event, Massage Envy donated $10 from every one-hour massage and facial to the Arthritis Foundation. Also on that date, 10 percent of sales of Murad® products at Massage Envy and Massage Envy Spa locations was donated to the Foundation. Last year’s event raised nearly $500,000 to support life-changing arthritis research and programs. Besides hosting Healing Hands for Arthritis, Massage Envy was a national sponsor of the Foundation’s 2012 Arthritis Walks. To learn about massage and arthritis, visit arthritis.org/arthritis-and-massagewhat-you-should-know.php.
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raising awareness and funds for a cure 2012 Commitment to a Cure Awards Gala: Beverly Hills, CA We invite you to join us for the 2012 Commitment to a Cure Awards Gala on October 25th at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Under the guidance of Gala chair and accomplished film producer Deborah Snyder, this year’s Gala will honor Danny Glover, one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed and respected stars, and Scott F. Kavanaugh, a leader in the financial community. Other celebrity guests will include actors Christopher Meloni and Vanessa Hudgens. In addition to the awards presentation, entertainment provided by Plain White T’s and Sonos, cocktails, dinner and a live auction will round out the unforgettable evening. CO OM MM M II TT M M EE N N TT C
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Jane Wyman Humanitarian Award honoree Danny Glover Actor, Producer, Humanitarian Danny Glover has been a commanding presence on screen, stage and television for more than 25 years. As an actor, his film credits range from the blockbuster “Lethal Weapon” franchise to the criticallyacclaimed “Dreamgirls”. Glover also helms Louveture Films, an independent production company responsible for several highly regarded films including the recent Academy Award-nominated, “Trouble the Water”. Glover has gained respect for his wide-reaching community activism and philanthropic efforts, with a particular emphasis on advocacy for economic justice and access to health care and education programs in the United States and Africa. For these efforts Glover received a 2006 DGA Honor and was honored with a 2011 “Pioneer Award” from the National Civil Rights Museum. Internationally, Glover has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program from 1998-2004, focusing on issues of poverty, disease and economic development in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. Currently, Glover serves as UNICEF Ambassador. Jane Wyman Humanitarian Award honoree Scott F. Kavanaugh Chief Executive Officer, First Foundation Inc. Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, First Foundation Bank Mr. Kavanaugh provides strategic leadership and oversight for operations of both First Foundation Advisors and First Foundation Bank. Formerly an Executive VP and Director of Secondary Marketing for Provident Funding, Mr. Kavanaugh was also a founding stockholder of Commercial Capital BanCorp and served as Director, Executive VP and Chief Administrative Officer. He also served as Director, Executive VP and Chief Operating Officer of Commercial Capital Mortgage. During his tenure, the bank grew over 400% and was successfully taken public. Since 1990, the men and women of First Foundation Inc. have provided leadership and resources to the nonprofit community. In 2011, the employees of First Foundation supported more than 75 different organizations throughout Southern California. One of its members was the founder of National Philanthropy Day, celebrated in 50 states and three countries. Philanthropy and public service is part of the DNA of First Foundation. “Our employees and clients live, work and raise their families in the communities First Foundation serves. We consider it our responsibility and distinct honor to do our part to strengthen these neighborhoods, by working with the Arthritis Foundation to help find a cure for this dreadful disease.” – Scott F. Kavanaugh celebrity guests Christopher Meloni
Vanessa Hudgens
live auction packages include: “Man of Steel” Experience Backlot tour and Hollywood premiere of the new Superman movie. Includes lunch with director Zack Snyder and a chance to meet the Man of Steel, Henry Cavill.
European Movie Premiere of “300: Rise of an Empire” Attend this star-studded European premiere of the sequel to “300”. Includes travel and accommodations.
Custom Chrysler 300s Complete with “Dark Knight” inspired trim, this limitededition car is in a class by itself.
NFL Game Day Pittsburgh Steelers VIP Game Experience From the sidelines to a luxury box, this is a football fan’s dream come true.
For more information about the Gala, please contact Katie Holmes at kholmes@arthritis.org, 323.954.5760 ext. 250, or visit commitmenttoacurela.org. page 8
GETTING THE WORD OUT ABOUT ARTHRITIS Enjoy the Latest Publications from the Arthritis Foundation Voices of Arthritis 2011 Annual Report
The 2011 Arthritis Foundation Annual Report presents a sampling of the diverse and inspirational voices of those with arthritis, their family and friends. You can read the online version by entering the following address in your Web browser: arthritis.org/annualreport/flipbook.
Environmental and Policy Strategies to Increase Physical Activity Among Adults With Arthritis
The ground-breaking Environmental and Policy Strategies to Increase Physical Activity Among Adults with Arthritis was developed in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and 30 other national stakeholders. This study explores policy changes needed within six sectors to promote physical activity for individuals with arthritis. To learn more, visit arthritis.org/physical-activity.
A Publication of the Arthritis Foundation
Summer 2012
Gabrielle’s Vision of Better Treatments for Kids
“T
he pain feels like someone is cutting my joints with a knife,” says the bright-eyed young girl across the table. Her smile dims as she recounts the weekly visits to her rheumatologist for injections. While other girls her age are playing carefree, Gabrielle Gabrys, a fourth grader at Atlanta’s Cliff Valley School, spends hours shuffling from doctor to doctor, enduring monthly infusions and submitting to blood tests that ensure her organs aren’t being damaged and that the drugs are working to help keep her juvenile arthritis (JA) and uveitis in check. Yet, if you didn’t prompt her to tell you about her disease, you might never know this delightful girl suffers almost constantly. In fact, it seems her disease has inspired her to live life to its fullest. Diagnosed at 2 years old, the disease progressed quickly, and by 3 Gabrielle had uveitis, an eye inflammation that causes blindness if not treated properly. Today, she has arthritis in her knees, elbows, fingers, toes and hips. Gabrielle’s personal experience with JA and uveitis has made her determined to help find a cure and more effective treatments for herself and other children battling the disease. “Did you know they don’t really make any drugs specifically for kids with arthritis?” Gabrielle asks. “I have to spend three hours each month getting an infusion, and I go to my doctor for weekly shots.” “I wish there was a better treatment,” she adds. “That’s why it’s important for me to raise money to help find new treatments for kids like me.” And that’s just what Gabrielle and a group of friends from Cliff Valley School are doing. After seeing the success of a school-wide fundraiser for kids with asthma, Gabrielle and friends Lia Nieman, Natalie Sansom-Botstein and Lily Marzano launched their
own fundraising effort to support the Arthritis Foundation. Last year, the girls set up a jar at the school’s annual fall festival and raised more than $100. Thrilled by their success, they redoubled their efforts. Continued on page 2
Arthritis Foundation Research Snapshot “The support of our partners from the Arthritis Foundation, the Friends of CARRA and the various disease-specific foundations has been tremendous. This is truly a community and a collaborative effort. Their work is awe-inspiring and we would not be able to accomplish what we have without them.” Kathleen Fox, Senior Project Leader, CARRA Initiatives, Duke Clinical Research Institute
The Arthritis Foundation takes seriously the need for focused research on childhood rheumatic disease, especially Juvenile Arthritis and since 2002 has provided both financial and foundational support to the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA). More than $3.5 million committed to all JA Research Projects between 2007 and 2011 $2,683,500 in research funding to non-CARRA related JA research between 2007 and 2011 $1,325,000 in CARRA grants between 2007 and 2011 Additional $125,000 committed to CARRA for 2012 JA-related Innovative Research Grants totaling $400,000 awarded for 2012
The summer issue of Research Update highlights the Arthritis Foundation’s support of Juvenile Arthritis research and its partnership with the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Allliance (CARRA). Visit arthritis.org/ research-update for the latest information on Arthritis Foundation research initiatives.
Keeping UP the Momentum on AwareneSs through the Ad Council Campaign The national multimedia “Fight Arthritis Pain” Ad Council campaign continues to build awareness of the importance of physical activity in managing the pain and disability of osteoarthritis. More than 400 outdoor billboards will communicate the message in California and Arizona this year, with a donated media value of almost $1.6 million. Visit FightArthritisPain.org to view the empowering campaign and learn about ways you can use exercise as your weapon against arthritis pain.
Moving Forward in Digital Communications New Arthritis.org Website Coming Soon! Stay tuned for the debut of the new arthritis.org website this winter! Guided by consumer research, the new website design incorporates user-friendly navigation, new content, and enhanced functionality (website content can be viewed on mobile devices). Social Media Join the Arthritis Foundation’s social media community! Stay current on late-breaking news and useful information about events and programs, while engaging with others within the arthritis community in Arizona, California, Hawaii and Nevada. We invite you to “Like” us on Facebook: facebook.com/arthritisfoundationpacificregion Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/arthritispac or @arthritispac Or enjoy videos on the Pacific Region YouTube channel: youtube.com/AFPacificRegion. Search Engine Marketing The Pacific Region recently secured a $120,000 Google grant which has allowed it to field Google AdWords campaigns to promote awareness and participation in Arthritis Walks, the California Coast Classic Bike Tour, and more.
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making a difference in the fight against arthritis Personal Story: Taking Control of Arthritis Tennis Champion Brian Teacher’s Winning Advice: You’ve Got to Get Up and Move!
Tennis was the passion of Brian Teacher’s life. He began hitting tennis balls at the age of 3 at Morley Field in San Diego, California. As the years passed, the future was bright for this talented athlete. Brian won the Pacific 8 singles and doubles championships for UCLA in 1974 and became the #1 player in college tennis. However, weeks after experiencing these amazing accomplishments, Brian started having neck and back problems and was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in his neck and spine at the age of 19. During his professional tennis career, Brian practiced yoga to manage his osteoarthritis pain. However, the pain kept getting worse. It hurt to walk, sit and was almost impossible to get a good night’s sleep. The pain from his arthritis was emotional as well. Brian shared, “You feel like you’re trapped. When you’re in pain all day long, and you can’t pick up anything or can’t sit in a chair, you feel like your world is closing in on you.” Brian resolved to take charge of his pain. He said, “Each person has to find that certain activity or exercise that will make them feel better.” His answer was Bikram Yoga. Brian began feeling better: His joints strengthened and his flexibility and stability increased. He then began weightlifting, mountain biking, and ultimately returned to the activity he loved most— tennis. Brian asserts, “My life is back on track. I feel 100% better, although I still have a long way to go.” Rheumatologist Dr. E. Robert Harris supports Brian’s commitment to exercise to overcome arthritis pain. He asserts, “Exercise strengthens your joints, ligaments and tendons, and prevents falling as well as progressive injury. It also contributes to weight loss, which further benefits the joints and improves your overall well-being.” Brian’s advice to those with arthritis? “If you’re suffering from arthritis, you’ve got to get up and move to feel better. Do whatever it takes to find the right way to get your body moving. You have to!” Brian’s inspirational story was recently featured at the U.S. Open in New York in support of the Arthritis Foundation/Ad Council’s “Fight Arthritis Pain” public service campaign. View Brian’s story at bit.ly/Qmzx79 and get moving today!
You can make a difference: here’s how
When you give to the Arthritis Foundation, you’re helping us serve Americans with arthritis, their families and health professionals. You’re also making an investment in the future by helping us to find a cure for arthritis. There are so many ways you can support the Arthritis Foundation and bring hope, comfort and relief to the 6 million people in the Pacific Region who suffer from arthritis. Become a Research Advocate With a gift of just $100 or more, you’ll be recognized as an official Research Advocate, entitling you to special privileges. In addition, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of membership, including our latest Drug Guide and Arthritis Today magazine, our awardwinning publication packed with the most current and trustworthy advice from the world’s top doctors and arthritis experts. Honor a Loved One with Hope Through HeroesSM Our Hope Through Heroes program lets you honor or commemorate the life of a friend or loved one. Make a contribution in honor or in memory of someone who has touched your life, and you’ll help provide important resources to accelerate arthritis cures and fund needed research, patient services, and professional education and community services. For more information on the program, send an email to donor_relations@arthritis.org. Ensure a Better Future with a Planned Gift Planned giving is an ideal way to benefit both the Arthritis Foundation and your financial estate. There are several ways to structure a planned gift so that it can provide you with a steady income stream and a lower tax liability. The gift can consist of cash, securities or real estate. Read more about charitable gift annuities on page 11. To learn more about the benefits of Planned Giving, contact Matthew Duggan, Area Director for Planned Giving, at mduggan@arthritis.org or 877.577.0087. Join the Arthritis Foundation Become a member of the Arthritis Foundation and enjoy many benefits, including access to the Arthritis Specialists Referral List, member’s-only discounts on most Foundation books and video purchases, a full year’s subscription to Arthritis Today magazine, special updates on research, and much more. Join today on arthritis.org. Explore Other Ways to Make a Difference Explore more creative and practical ways to make the most of your contribution. In addition to supporting Arthritis Foundation events, you can donate your car, make a monthly gift, or donate by phone or mail. For more information on how you can make a difference for those with arthritis, please contact the Executive Director of your local Arthritis Foundation office. page 10
thank you to our generous 2011 major donors
CENTURY SOCIETY ($100,000-$299,999) Active Network Amgen USA The Helen C. Coverdill Trust Stryker Orthopaedics Vons Foundation Walmart Wellpoint Foundation JUBILEE SOCIETY ($50,000-$99,999) Abbott Laboratories Inc. Amgen Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey S. Bass Mr. & Mrs. John Kissick Juanita Travers Charitable Trust Pfizer Inc. ENRICHMENT SOCIETY ($25,000-$49,999) Dana Dale Adle Amgen Foundation The Davidow Charitable Fund Genentech Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian Harriet Reynolds Korkes Trust Dr. Robert Majumder MASSAGE ENVY Corporate Prospect Medical Holdings Inc. Jimmy Rollins Family Foundation Takeda Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. INVESTMENT SOCIETY ($10,000-$24,999) Alere Health Systems Inc. Amgen USA Auen Foundation California Community Foundation Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. California Rheumatology Alliance Comerica Helen Denit Trust Desert Regional Medical Center Terry Fator & Taylor Makakoa Glenn Frey Mr. Eric G. Geisler Richard H. Gold
Hawaii Pacific Health Ms. Barbara B. Herman Felix A. & Irene Huss Trust The Crawford Idema Foundation Inter Valley Health Plan Jeereddi Partners Paul Jones Josh & Melanie Kaplan Mrs. Harry Lenart Loeb & Loeb LLP The Mirage Las Vegas Moffatt Revocable Trust Mudd Charitable Foundation Newport Orthopedic Institute Mrs. Terry L. Gilmore Nixon Pepperdine University Anna K. Pfeiffer Charitable Trust Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center Providence Health & Services Quest Software Inc. Venkamma Reddy Riverside Community Health Foundation Michael Alan Rosen Foundation Adrienne & Stanford K. Rubin Robert J. Schlossberg Foundation Frances Seebe Trust Mr. & Mrs. G. Kirk Swingle Foundation Tenet Healthcare Flora L. Thornton Foundation The Women’s Auxiliary of the Arthritis Foundation Wood-Claeyssens Foundation Paul & Eleanore G. Ziegelmaier Endowment Fund of the Sacramento Region Community Foundation BEQUEST GIFTS Selma E. Andrews Elizabeth Hofert-Dailey Josephine Hruska Dorothy Jennings Glenn Kelley Sharon Magruder Wilmah Powell Irma Radcliffe Evelyn Sanguinetti Ruth Wetherbee Jane Wyman Trust
THE CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY – IT WORKS FOR EVERYONE
If you’re looking for a secure source of fixed income to meet your immediate or future financial needs, a charitable gift annuity to the Arthritis Foundation may be the perfect solution. A charitable gift annuity is a contract between you and the Arthritis Foundation in which you transfer assets such as money or securities to us. In exchange, we pay you a fixed income for life. The amount of these payments will be determined in advance of the gift, and it will never fluctuate regardless of the state of the economy. That’s peace of mind you won’t get from stocks, mutual funds or practically any other investment option. You can also realize substantial tax benefits with a charitable gift annuity to the Arthritis Foundation. Not only can you claim a deduction for the value of the gift in the year it was made, but there are ongoing tax savings that can result in tax-free or taxreduced payments for the life of the annuity. Retirees and those nearing retirement are finding charitable gift annuities to be an ideal way to support the Arthritis Foundation while locking in stable annuity payments for the rest of their lives. To learn more about the benefits of a charitable gift annuity, contact Matthew Duggan, Area Director for Planned Giving, at mduggan@arthritis.org or 877.577.0087.
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For more information, visit us online at arthritis.org!
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