(ABC 6 News) – Every runner has a goal and a reason to run. Anywhere from proving something to yourself to trying to stay fit.
But what about paying tribute to a child in a completely different state?
Ohio women raced in 49 states for boys with Down syndrome and autism. It’s the last state to reach her 50 here in Minnesota.
In 2015, Heidi Hammond connected with the Ray family through a Facebook group called “I Run for Michael,” which matched people with disabilities to run in their honor.
“It took about three months to get matched.
When she started running for Luke, she met other runners who gave her ideas to take her journey further. It became my goal to meet and run 50 states.”
Throughout this journey, Heidi has not only become an inspiration, but a member of the Rey family. Luke’s mom Brenda couldn’t be more grateful to her.
“Luke has been through a lot, so there’s another person out there who inspires him to keep moving,” Brenda said. In the past two years, Luke has had two hip surgeries. With Heidi providing long-distance support from Ohio or Savannah where she runs, Luke’s sister, Luke, has to step up at a very young age to help his mother Luke. But it doesn’t matter because she loves spending time with her brother.
“I love hanging out with him and sometimes I like playing video games with him,” Savannah said.
In Rook’s state, it’s very difficult for Raise to move. Luckily, Heidi and Brenda were able to find a way to ensure they were in for Heidi’s final race. That’s why we were close to Wisconsin, which means we have to do a lot of planning on her part,” Brenda said.
But this race almost never happened. Three weeks ago Heidi said he had COVID and wasn’t sure if he would recover by the race, but thankfully he did.
So on Saturday at the Healthy Human Race in Rochester. Brenda, Savannah and Luke participated in his 5k and Heidi in the half marathon. When Heidi crossed her line at the finish, Luke her Brenda and Savannah were waiting for her.
“This is a first goal for me. rice field.
Completing 50 races in 50 states takes a lot of work, a positive attitude and a lot of support. It’s a lot like Ray’s daily life. Brenda said: So that’s about it. And it brings us closer together. Others may think it’s crazy, but we’re fine with it. ”
After today’s race, Brenda addressed daily struggles and talked about how people can help. And she just asks the simple question, “How can I help?” Or just being there to be there and take care.
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