The unit of Rheumatology, University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) organized the Arthritis Awareness Fun Run for the first time which was held on 30th November 2019 at University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur. An estimated 1400 participants including volunteers and international participants from 16 countries took part in this good cause. The main objective was to create public awareness on arthritis especially inflammatory arthritic diseases.
The Rheumatology Unit of UMMC sees about 2400 patients every year, out of which close to 200 patients require biologics and small molecules that improve their treatment outcome. “Since arthritis causes considerable burden to patients and a substantial strain on the nation’s healthcare resources, the Arthritis Care Fund under the auspices of UMMC/PPUM Care was initiated to provide financial assistance for patients to have access to these advanced medications which are priced beyond their earning capacity”, said Professor Dr Raja Jasmin, consultant rheumatologist and chief organizer of Arthritis Awareness Fun Run. This fundraiser event with the motto “Joint Movement” had successfully raised MYR 73,000 to support its noble initiative through donations from sponsors and the public, as well as revenue from the event.
The public also had the opportunity to learn about arthritis and participate in various fun activities at the education booths held by pharmaceutical companies and patient support group organizations.
The Arthritis Care Fund continues to support and fund patients for the treatment of biologics till today.
.png)
Launch of Arthritis Awareness Fun Run 2019
.png)
Mock cheque presentation
(From left: Member of Parliament YB Mr. Fahmi Fadzil, UMMC hospital director Professor Dr Tunku Kamarul Zaman, event chief organizer Prof Dr Raja Jasmin, UMMC deputy hospital directors – Prof Dr Nazirah Hasnan and Prof Dr Azura Mansor)
.png)
Zumba warm up session
.png)
.png)
.png)
Champions of 5KM and 10KM categories
.png)
.png)
Various fun activities related to hand joint movements at education booths
.png)
