Bartlett, ‘Biggest Loser’s’ Ventrella to host Walk For Lupus July 21

The inaugural Northwestern Suburbs Walk for Lupus Now on July 21 includes a choice of 1½- or 3-mile walks and fun activities for the entire family. Activities include DJ and music, face painting, Bozo buckets, crafts, goody bags, hula-hoop contest, team T-shirt contest, raffle and more.

Michael Ventrella, the winner of the 2010 “Biggest Loser,” will host the warm-up and kick off the walk.

Teams and individuals are invited to raise funds for their efforts, which will go to fund the Lupus Foundation of America, Illinois Chapter’s mission.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and tissue damage to virtually every organ system in the body. An estimated 65,000 Illinois residents struggle with lupus every day; 90 percent of them are women. Unfortunately, most Americans know little or nothing about lupus or its telltale symptoms.

The Lupus Foundation of America, Illinois Chapter is the state’s leading organization dedicated to helping Illinois’ lupus community. Walk for Lupus Now events raise the funds necessary to keep all of the LFAI’s programs and services free to those who need them. The first 100 adults and 100 kids will receive a goody bag for their participation.

All registered walkers will receive an official Walk for Lupus Now T-shirt on Walk Day. Registration is $25 for adults prior to the event and $30 for the day of the event. Kids 12 and under can register for $10 prior to or at the event.