The Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run® brings Sioux Falls together for a festive 5K to raise funds and awareness for arthritis research

Sioux Falls, SD– The annual Sioux Falls Jingle Bell Run returns to Downtown Sioux Falls on Black Friday — November 29th with the goal of raising $30,000. This family-friendly, holiday-themed 5K or 1.5 mile walk at Fawick Park encourages participants to dress in festive costumes and get moving to raise awareness and funds to cure America’s #1 cause of disability. 

Taking place in more than 100 cities nationwide, the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run benefits the nearly 60 million adults and hundreds of thousands of children in the U.S. who are living with arthritis every day. From funding cutting-edge research for new treatments, and ultimately a cure, to advocating for health care access, the Arthritis Foundation helps people with arthritis score everyday victories, one step at a time. 

“The Sioux Falls Jingle Bell Run is a 17-year tradition in Sioux Falls, and we’re looking forward to bringing extra holiday cheer to town this year,” said Taylor Van Emmerik, Sioux Falls Jingle Bell Run Lead Coordinator. “Our honorees and volunteers are who make the Sioux Falls Jingle Bell Run successful and memorable every year, and this year we’re humbled to honor warriors like Harper who is a true arthritis champion.” 

Harper is an active 6-year-old who was diagnosed with Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis when she was 16 months old. Harper quickly went into medicated remission once she started treatment but after a couple years, it stopped working and she had to switch medications. Occasionally, Harper experiences flare-ups but overall is doing well. Harper will start 1st grade in the fall and is currently involved in softball, swim lessons, Girl Scouts, and dance. In addition, Harper hopes to give soccer a try this fall. She’s a lover of stuffed animals, crafts, and fashion.

In addition to our youth honoree, Harper, the following people and partners will be honored.  

• Bodie Murray, Sioux Falls Jingle Bell Run Young Adult Honoree 

• Dr. Jared Daniel, Sioux Falls Jingle Bell Run Medical Honoree 

The Jingle Bell Run is nationally sponsored by Novartis and Zoetis. Local sponsors include First Premier Bank and Premier Bankcard, Vern Eide Motorcars, Sanford Health, and Lewis Drug. To learn more and register for the Sioux Falls Jingle Bell Run, visit www.jbr.org/siouxfalls or contact the Arthritis Foundation at 1(800) 283-7800.