Arthritis Foundation, Georgia Chapter and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Announce Partnership

/PRNewswire/ -- The Arthritis Foundation today announced a new relationship with Atlanta-based Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA), who will serve as the local charity's presenting Arthritis Walk sponsor. As the presenting sponsor of the Arthritis Walk Atlanta, BCBSGA will provide financial support, as well as onsite support by mobilizing its more than 3,000 employees throughout the state to participate in their local Arthritis Walk.

"Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's generosity allows the Arthritis Foundation to re-focus a considerable amount of its resources back to its mission of raising awareness, funding research and providing services to the more than 1.8 millions Georgians - including 9,200 children - who are living with arthritis," said Rob Shaw, president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation, Georgia Chapter. "This unique relationship speaks volumes about BCBSGA's commitment to have a positive impact in the lives of people living with one of the more than 100 forms of arthritis."

As the nation's most common cause of disability, arthritis affects more than 46 million people nationally. In Georgia alone, arthritis costs the economy $3.9 billion in medical expenses.

"At BCBSGA we continually look for ways to positively impact the well-being of the people we serve and the overall health of our communities," said Monye Connolly, president, BCBSGA. "We have aligned with the Arthritis Foundation in an effort to help the millions of Georgians living with arthritis improve their overall quality of life."

The Arthritis Walk-Atlanta is slated for May 22, 2010 at Atlantic Station in Midtown Atlanta. The event raises desperately needed funds for arthritis research, programs and services that will directly support those affected by arthritis. Offerings include a one and three-mile course followed by lunch and entertainment for the whole family. For many, the Arthritis Walk is their first step in taking control of their arthritis. Exercise, especially walking, is a particularly effective tool in managing arthritis.

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