MMRI and LADA Hold Walk to Support Lupus Research in Honor of Lupus Awareness Month

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Masonic Medical Research Institute (MMRI) hosted more than 250 people at the Masonic Care Community Campus, located at 2150 Bleecker Street, Utica, New York, to walk in support of its lupus research. Food trucks and a “fun zone” for kids with face painting, crafts and yard games were available to start the day. Participants then chose from a guided one mile walk or a 5k walk or run. This was Utica’s second annual walk/run to support the devastating autoimmune disease estimated to affect 1.5 million people in the United States and 120,000 in New York State alone.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) causes the immune system to attack one’s own tissue, causing inflammation in the skin, joints, blood, heart, lungs, brain and kidneys. Importantly, ninety percent of people living with SLE are female and it disproportionately affects minority populations.

Maria Kontaridis, Ph.D., executive director and Gordon K. Moe professor and chair of biomedical research and translational medicine at MMRI and Kathleen Arntsen, president and CEO at Lupus and Allied Diseases Association, Inc. (LADA), kicked off the day with a press conference in support of the second annual event.

“We are delighted to hold Utica’s only Lupus Walk to support our growing lupus research endeavors,” said Maria Kontaridis, Ph.D. “My mother’s 23-year-long battle with lupus motivated me to make lupus research a priority at MMRI. Our findings give great hope that one day soon there will be newer and better treatment options available for so many patients that suffer with this disease.”

LADA has been a proud supporter of MMRI research since 1990 and currently supports four major lupus research projects, including identifying how the increased activity of specific biological enzymes in the body can affect progression and pathogenesis of SLE; identifying new ways to target and treat lupus nephritis (kidney disease); developing novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of SLE; and studying how immune cell activity in SLE can lead to the development of venous thromboembolisms. LADA has played a crucial role in MMRI’s lupus research program, providing more than $615,000 in grant funding.

“All of us at LADA are thrilled to partner with MMRI on this wonderful lupus walk during Lupus Awareness Month in the Utica area,” said Kathleen Arntsen, president & CEO. “This community event is especially meaningful to us since it not only supports lupus research at the MMRI but also allows us to strengthen our advocacy and research collaboration with the institute.”

Several elected officials were present on stage to offer their support, including Senator Joseph Griffo, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, Assemblyman Brian Miller, County Executive Anthony Picente.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The Department thanks Masonic Medical Research Institute for their continued research and education related to this complex disease. Because Lupus remains difficult to diagnose, spreading awareness can help those suffering from the disease seek diagnosis and treatment as early as possible. Furthermore, through events like MMRI’s annual Lupus Walk, those suffering from this difficult disease can experience and benefit from the support of their community.

“The MMRI is a premier biomedical research institution that does important work that improves the lives of others,” said Senator Joseph Griffo. “This includes critical research that helps us to better understand lupus and other debilitating diseases. I am hopeful that, thanks to the efforts of MMRI and so many others, we will be able to find an effective treatment – and more importantly a cure – that can bring much-needed relief and comfort to those living with lupus and their families.”

“It was a true honor to recently welcome the MMRI to Albany in recognition of Lupus Awareness and the groundbreaking research they are leading right here in the Mohawk Valley,” said Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon. “Their work is offering hope to the millions of individuals and families impacted by lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that often goes unseen but is deeply felt. I am proud to continue supporting MMRI’s mission as they advance scientific discovery, raise awareness, and bring us closer each day to better treatments, and ultimately, a cure. Please consider joining them to take steps toward a cure and show your support for those affected by lupus.”

“I’m proud to recognize the Masonic Medical Research Institute and the Lupus and Allied Diseases Association for once again joining forces to host the Second Annual Lupus Walk. This growing tradition serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, advocacy, and scientific advances in treatments. As we observe Lupus Awareness Month, I applaud their partnership and collaborative effort to advance research and bring hope to those affected by this autoimmune disease. We’re fortunate to have such committed partners leading the charge right here in our region,” said Assemblyman Brian Miller.

“Lupus is a devastating disease that affects far too many individuals and families in our region,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “Supporting MMRI’s cutting-edge research is critical to finding better treatments and, ultimately, a cure. Oneida County is proud to stand alongside the scientists, advocates, and community members working to make a difference.”

The media sponsors for Utica’s first walk to support lupus research are Sentinel Media Company, Bug Country, 97.9/105.5 Kiss-FM and Talk of the Town – Utica, NY.