SIDNEY — Anna Neu is an 8-year-old who is fighting Ankylosing Spondylitis, a rare autoimmune form of arthritis that causes joint and tendon pain and bone erosions. She, and her team, Anna’s Angels raise money every year for the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run in Columbus, Ohio.

Anna recently had to undergo sedation and direct steroid joint injections because her disease flare made it impossible for her to walk on her own more than a few steps. This procedure has helped and her family is grateful she will be able to participate in the “Week Away from the Kitchen” fundraisers next week.

“We continue to search for a medication that will slow down her disease progress and provide pain relief,” Anna’s mother Emily Neu said. “Fundraising is a way for us to feel like we are directly fighting this disease, knowing the Arthritis Foundation will use the funds for research provides us with some hope for Anna’s future, but that isn’t the best part.

“The best part of these fundraisers is seeing Anna’s smile and showing her how much support she has. Anna often feels alone with this disease, but when so many come out to support her…she knows, even if for a few hours, she is not alone and has a whole community supporting her!”

Emily and Justin Neu expressed their tremendous gratitude to the Sidney community and the support they receive for their daughter. It is hard on the whole family and these events help re-energize them to keep fighting.

Anna’s Angels has partnered with local Sidney restaurants to give you an opportunity to have “A Week Away from the Kitchen” while supporting a great cause. The following events will occur next week to support Anna’s Angels and the Arthritis Foundation:

• Monday, Oct. 9, eat at Bob Evans from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• Tuesday, Oct. 10, eat at Chipotle from 4 to 8 p.m.

• Wednesday, Oct. 11, eat at BW3’s from 5 to 9 p.m.

• Thursday, Oct. 12, eat at Arby’s from 5 to 8 p.m.

Bring a flyer (found at https://emalli.wixsite.com/annasangels/fundraising-events) and/or mention Anna’s Angels at check out – before you pay for your meal.

• Saturday, Oct. 14, All you can eat pancakes at 8 to 10 a.m. at Applebee’s. You must have a ticket to enter. Tickets are available at the door for $8 a ticket.

Anna and her family are hoping to see you next week at one or more of the fundraisers.