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Community Corner

MAY 18: Fight the Bite at DryHome's Loudoun Lyme 5K

Dust off the sneakers and join the 1,000 runners/walkers of all ages who are expected to attend DryHome’s 4th Annual Loudoun Lyme 5K in an effort to help find a cure for Lyme disease, the number one tick-borne illness in the U.S. which affects Loudoun County more than any other county in Virginia. This year’s event will be held at the Brambleton Town Center on May 18th at 8am.

The Loudoun Lyme 5K will also feature a 1K family walk/fun run and informational fair to educate the public about the disease, its causes, and treatments.  Steve Gotschi, the owner of Sterling-based DryHome Roofing and Siding, started the race and walk, after watching his wife and many friends battle the disease. 

In its 4th year, the Loudoun Lyme 5K has already raised more than $100,000 to support research and advocacy efforts. Home to the third largest number of Lyme’s cases in the nation, Loudoun County is facing a Lyme disease epidemic, with 22 percent of the states reported cases occurring in the county. 

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Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, a spirochetal infection, and is transmitted by the bite of an infected blacklegged tick.  Lyme disease is the fastest spreading tick-borne disease in the U.S. with an estimated 300,000 new cases each year.  Infected people often test negative for Lyme disease.  If left untreated, infection can cause severe neurological, cardiac and arthritic problems. Initial signs of Lyme disease may include a bull’s eye rash, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms.  Early detection and treatment is vital.

The race costs $30 for adults/$20 for children 17 and under. Following May 13, adults cost $35/children $20.  The fair is free. Proceeds benefit the National Capital Lyme Disease Association, a nonprofit offering education and support.  Along with the race, DryHome’s Loudoun Lyme 5K will have an informational fair with booths from local businesses, the medical community, vendors, and children’s activities. To learn more about the race or to register, visit www.LoudounLyme.org.

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