MMRI and LADA Host 2026 Lupus Walk in Utica

Masonic Medical Research Institute (MMRI), in partnership with Lupus and Allied Diseases Association, Inc. (LADA), hosted its third annual Lupus Walk on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Masonic Care Community campus in Utica, New York. The community event brought together supporters, advocates, families, and local leaders to raise awareness and funding for lupus research while supporting individuals and families affected by lupus and related autoimmune diseases.

Community Comes Together for Lupus Awareness

The annual Lupus Walk welcomed participants from across the region for a morning focused on community, advocacy, and education. Attendees enjoyed family-friendly activities including face painting, local food trucks, and opportunities to connect with others who share a commitment to advancing lupus awareness and medical research.

Local elected officials who attended in support of the event and its mission, included Senator Joseph Griffo, Assemblywomen Marianne Buttenschon, Assemblyman Brian Miller, Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente Jr., and Sheriff Robert Maciol.

Supporting Lupus Research at MMRI

Funds raised through the Lupus Walk directly support ongoing lupus and autoimmune disease research at MMRI. Researchers at MMRI are investigating how immune cell activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) contributes to serious complications, including venous thromboembolism, lupus nephritis, and lupus-associated myocarditis.

MMRI scientists are also studying how increased activity of specific biological enzymes influences the progression and pathogenesis of lupus. They are also focused on developing novel therapeutic agents aimed at improving treatment options for those living with lupus and related autoimmune diseases.

“We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support of our community and everyone who participated in this year’s walk, despite the weather,” said Nicole Knoblock, Pubic Relations & Events Manager at MMRI. “Events like this help advance the research and discoveries that are so important to individuals and families affected by lupus.”

“We are honored to continue our partnership with MMRI for this meaningful event,” said Kathleen Arntsen, President and CEO of LADA . “The success of this year’s event reflects the strength of the community and our shared commitment to supporting research and advocacy efforts that instill hope for a brighter future in those affected by lupus.”

Understanding Lupus and Autoimmune Disease

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. The disease can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain, causing inflammation, pain, and a wide range of symptoms that vary from person to person.

One of the most common forms of the disease, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), can lead to serious health complications including lupus nephritis, cardiovascular inflammation, and blood clotting disorders. While there is currently no cure for lupus, ongoing medical research continues to improve understanding of the disease and develop new treatment approaches that offer hope to patients and families worldwide.

At MMRI, researchers across multiple laboratories are working to better understand the mechanisms behind lupus and autoimmune disease progression. The Kontaridis Laboratory studies how the increased activity of specific biological enzymes in the body can affect the progression and pathogenesis of SLE, including the development of lupus nephritis and lupus-associated myocarditis. The Kessinger Laboratory investigates how immune cell activity in SLE can lead to the development of venous thromboembolism. The McCarthy Laboratory is developing novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of SLE and lupus nephritis, while the Lin Laboratory explores the function of interferon regulatory factor 2 binding protein 2 (IRF2BP2) in the regulation of lupus development and function.

Together, these research efforts are helping advance scientific understanding of lupus while supporting the development of new approaches for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term patient care.

Continued Partnership Between MMRI and LADA

Through their continued partnership, Masonic Medical Research Institute and the Lupus and Allied Diseases Association, Inc. are helping advance both lupus awareness and scientific discovery while building a stronger support system for individuals and families affected by autoimmune disease.

Community events like the annual Lupus Walk not only raise critical funding for ongoing research efforts, but also help foster education, advocacy, and hope for those living with lupus. By bringing together researchers, those living with lupus, advocates, donors, and local supporters, MMRI and LADA continue to strengthen their shared mission of improving treatment options and advancing the future of lupus research.

By combining community support with groundbreaking biomedical research, MMRI and LADA are helping accelerate discoveries that may lead to improved therapies and better outcomes for people living with lupus and related autoimmune diseases.