RELAPSING POLYCHONDRITIS AWARENESS

Education: the rp foundation and race for rp are inspired by the courage and resilience of individuals with relapsing polychondritis (rp). Through a rapidly expanding network of patients, donors, and researchers, unique opportunities are created to advance discoveries in rp and related autoimmune diseases. In fy25, the penn division of rheumatology and rp program, with rp foundation support, held an educational meeting for rp patients and their families, facilitating community building, expert interaction, and learning about rp. The rp foundation highlighted its rp- focused research investments and penn collaboration at this meeting in october 2024. Furthermore, the penn vasculitis center / penn rp program, with support from the rp foundation and other partners, hosted dr. Roger yang, a vasculitis foundation fellow. Dr. Yang provided patient care and was instrumental in contributing to the vcrc's database regarding the clinical characteristics of rp and treatment approaches. He intends to open a new academic vasculitis center in montreal, where he will continue to care for rp patients.

Fundraising in fy25, the relapsing polychondritis (rp) foundation's dedication to advancing research was underscored by a series of successful fundraising initiatives and the achievement of guidestar's platinum seal of transparency. These efforts directly fuel breakthroughs in rp and related autoimmune disease research. Highlights of fundraising in fy25 include: -growing the community through annual giving tuesday and end-of-year appeals -rp warrior 5k walk: this global, patient-led event mobilized individuals to support vital relapsing polychondritis research. -exclusive 2025 vip race weekend at the indianapolis 500: this event, thanks to rp foundation partners kevin lee and james hinchcliffe, provided unforgettable experiences for attendees while raising significant funds for rp-related autoimmune disease research. Vip access to events like the legends day drivers meeting and pre-race rehearsal, along with a vip garage tour and autograph session, enhanced the experience. A carb night happy hour with james hinchcliff and friends further contributed to the stop and go foundation, the relapsing polychondritis foundation, and autoimmune disease research. -mclaren trophy vip experience competition: this partnership with mclaren provided a unique way for employees to support rp research through donations and a chance to acquire exclusive race day tickets. These accomplishments reflect the rp foundation's tangible impact in all areas of its purpose. Gratitude is extended to the clinical research partners for their continuous efforts in driving discoveries and advancements in rp and related autoimmune diseases. With continued support, the rp foundation remains committed to being a source of hope and a driving force for research that will ultimately lead to effective treatments and a cure for rp.