METUCHEN — The seventh annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk, set for Dec. 7, will bring runners and families together to raise funds to fight and cure arthritis.
The annual 5K event, which features a holiday costume contest, children’s zone and fun run, music and a sponsor expo, will be held at Metuchen High School at 9:30 a.m. Registration begins at 8 a.m. inside the school.
Approximately 1,000 residents, including competitive and recreational runners, walkers, corporate teams and families, are expected to participate in the event this year. The race is run on a certified course with finisher awards in each age bracket.
“Contrary to popular belief, arthritis is not an ‘old persons’ disease,” said Jaclyn Waterman, community development manager for the New Jersey chapter of the Arthritis Foundation. “Two-thirds of people with arthritis are under the age of 65.”
More than 300,000 children also live with arthritis, including 8-year-old Enzo Montanez from Newark, this year’s Jingle Bell Youth Honoree.
“I am excited to be the Youth Honoree of the Jingle Bell Run so I can help other kids and let them know they are not alone,” said Enzo, who is also organizing at his school to raise funds and awareness.
“When people think of arthritis, they automatically think of minor aches and pains, which is far from the truth,” Waterman said. “The various forms of arthritis can seriously affect joints, muscles, internal organs and eyes, and the disease claims the lives of nearly 10,000 people each year.”
To learn more and register for the Jingle Bell Run/Walk, visit www.jbrmetuchen.kintera.org or contact the Arthritis Foundation at 856-673-1369.