'Stampede' At Detroit Zoo To Benefit Scleroderma Support And Research

ROYAL OAK (WWJ) - There's a stampede or sorts happening at the Detroit Zoo this weekend — but it's for a good cause.

The Scleroderma Foundation Michigan Chapter is hosting its "Stampede Scleroderma" annual fundraising run/walk this Sunday, June 8, at the Zoo.

Scleroderma is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic hardening and contraction of the skin and connective tissues, either locally or throughout the body.

Eighteen-year-old Jillian Isett, who just graduated high school, was diagnosed with Scleroderma at age seven.

She says everyday tasks can be a struggle.

"When your body is compromised all the time, it's hard to, like, do regular things that people don't ever have a problem with," said Isett.  "Like opening a jar, like, that's extremely difficult for me. Taking the lid off juice or something like that, it's really hard for me."

The fundraising goal is $60,000, with all proceeds to benefit the Scleroderma Foundation Michigan Chapter for support, education and research.

Get all the event details HERE.