Genentech Becomes a Key Sponsor for the Walk to End Lupus Now® Event

Genentech Partners with Lupus Foundation for a Worthy Cause

The Lupus Foundation of America has proudly announced that Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, will serve as the presenting sponsor for the upcoming Walk to End Lupus Now® in 2026. This event represents the nation's largest initiative dedicated to both raising awareness and funds for lupus, spanning across 30 communities in the United States.

Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, poses significant health challenges for millions worldwide, including approximately 1.5 million individuals in the U.S. The symptoms of lupus are highly varied and can include severe fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and even life-threatening complications affecting vital organs. Notably, the disease predominantly affects women, with about 90% of lupus patients being female, and it significantly impacts certain ethnic groups, including Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, and Asian/Pacific Islander communities.

The Walk to End Lupus Now® serves as a gathering point for those directly impacted by lupus, their families, caregivers, and supporters. The initiative aims to raise much-needed funds that will go toward lupus research, educational programs, advocacy, and vital support services. Through the support of Genentech, the Lupus Foundation of America seeks to elevate the level of care available, provide essential resources, and edge closer to a vision of a world free from lupus.

Louise Vetter, President and CEO of the Lupus Foundation of America, expressed immense gratitude towards Genentech for stepping into this pivotal role. "Their commitment signifies a profound partnership aimed at bettering the lives of individuals affected by this complex illness. This synergy between us reflects a shared mission to enhance the quality of care and ensure future generations have access to effective treatments,” said Vetter.

Girish Mulye, Vice President and Head of Immunology at Genentech, highlighted the company's long-standing pursuit of breakthroughs in lupus treatment over the last three decades. He stated, "Becoming the presenting sponsor showcases our dedication to working alongside the lupus community in our quest for better care. This walk symbolizes our commitment to awareness and transforming scientific possibilities into tangible impacts for all affected users."

Participation in the Walk to End Lupus Now® is open to everyone. Individuals can gather friends and family, form teams, leverage their social networks, raise necessary funds, and promote awareness for the cause. The initiative plays a crucial role in advancing the Lupus Foundation of America’s mission to put an end to lupus, and registration for local events can be found at lupus.org/walk.

The Lupus Foundation of America serves as the leading advocacy organization dedicated to unraveling the complexities surrounding lupus, a painful autoimmune condition wherein the body’s immune system targets its own organs. The organization focuses on significant research and offers robust education and advocacy efforts to improve the quality of life for those dealing with this challenging disease. If you wish to learn more about the Lupus Foundation of America, visit their website at lupus.org.

Overall, the partnership between Genentech and the Lupus Foundation of America signals a potent alliance poised to amplify support for lupus initiatives, illuminate the path for future research, and foster a community of hope and connection for those affected by lupus.