NWCN and the Arthritis Foundation are excited to announce selection of the first ever Grand Marshal for the Jingle Bell Run/Walk in Seattle. Skagit Valley native and well-known NWCN anchor, Rob Piercy, will be at the center of festivities in 2013 while sharing his personal experience with osteoarthritis.
This is Rob’s fourth year of involvement with the Jingle Bell Run/Walk. After two years as emcee of his hometown race in Skagit, Rob emceed the Seattle event in 2012. The region also got its first glimpse of Rob’s story in a Public Service Announcement promoting the Jingle Bell Run/Walk, airing on NWCN, KING and KONG TV.
“The Arthritis Foundation is dedicated to positively impacting the lives of those living with arthritis and related diseases in our community. Rob’s own experience with arthritis and visibility in our community provide a larger platform to show what arthritis really looks like and its unacceptable effects.” Arthritis Foundation Great West Region CEO, Scott Weaver.
Rob was diagnosed with end stage osteoarthritis in his mid-30’s and this December marks the one year anniversary of his second hip replacement surgery. The Jingle Bell Run/Walk has significant meaning for him and his young family; not only will Rob have the opportunity to help raise awareness and important funding for arthritis research, his doctors have given him the “all clear” to participate on his new hip!
Rob’s duties as Grand Marshal include captaining his own team, aptly named “Rob’s Hip-Stars!” Registration is open and ready to welcome community members who want to participate. The Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis takes place on Sunday, December 8th at Westlake Center in downtown Seattle. Be sure to follow Rob on Facebook and Twitter where he will share small tidbits about his inspiring story. You can also support him by donating to his team.
To find out more about how to participate visit:
Hyperlink to “Rob’s Hip Stars” page or the main page at www.seattlejinglebellrun.org to find a Jingle Bell Run/Walk in your area.