200 miles. 12 runners. Two days. Running to end SMA!!!
Team Run For Owen is always amazing and tomorrow they are embarking on a new incredible adventure — the Ragnar Relay. This fabulous 12 person team starts their journey in Albany, New York and in relay style will travel 196 miles to Tarrytown, New York in honor of a very special little girl and to help change the brutal reality of SMA.
This journey is emotional. This race was organized in honor of the sassiest little four-year-old warrior, Mary Nelson of New York, who had the fight of her life last fall. Mary has SMA Type 1 and, fortunately, she has the ability to speak. The things she says, her spunk, and determination can only be defined as profound. Simply, she is inspirational and the lessons she imparts with her words, her innocence, and her sheer will has left a mark on the lives of countless adults.
And while this is a celebration of Mary because there is much to be celebrated about her incredible spirit, this race has also taken on a new grit. Beautiful Ciara Van De Loo, also of New York, passed away from SMA on April 26th, 2011. She was only 10 months old. The Van De Loos and sweet baby Ciara will be on the hearts of every runner as they run to help change the future of this cruel disease.
Mary's enthusiasm and joy, the loss of an innocent child, the determination of the thousands of children who literally fight for every day… gives fuel to each of these runners and we are so grateful for them. Thank you for running to end SMA. Thank you for making a difference! We are cheering you on!!!
Team Run For Owen Ragnar Relay Runners:
- Lauren Lundy (Zdunczyk) #9
- Deirdre Molloy #4
- Kate Nelson #11
- Annie Scott #5
- Dayle Bensenhaver #10
- Rachel Hershkowitz #6
- Suzanne Iovino #8
- Dana White #12
- Briana Blake #3
- Cathy Stiller #2
- Tom Zambrano #1
- Lauren Lundy O'Connor #7
To support this incredible group, click HERE.