The Beginning.

I am so excited.

So excited for the opportunity to share Deak's vision of Hope with others while raising funds which will be devoted to research for Ring 18.

He deserves it, and you deserve to be a part of it.

For those who don't know, Deakon was born with an extremely rare chromosomal abnormality, Ring 18.  Essentially the second strand of DNA on his 18th pair is missing some pieces and has formed the shape of a ring.

We were told by several medical professionals that Deak would not live to term, and if he did he would have no quality of life and be "profoundly retarded."

We chose not to give up hope, and Deak has been defying the odds since birth.

Deakon is now 4 and the race will take place the weekend of his 5th birthday.

He will be five, and that is nothing short of miraculous.

We chose to organize and direct a race at this time as Deakon is now on his way to becoming an independent walker. He is strong and tough and taking his first steps along furniture. His physical therapist believes it is only a matter of months before he is off and running.

I believe with my whole heart she is right.

Please, join us. Use your healthy legs this May 14th morning to help provide hope to those who have to work very hard to have that ability.  All (every single penny) will be used to fund genetic and medical research for these beautiful people affected with a Chromosome 18 abnormality, and most specifically Ring 18.  We are hoping to find sponsors that will help cover all costs of directing/putting on the race, which will allow for all funds to be distributed directly to our cause.

If you, or anybody you know is interested in becoming a sponsor, please leave a comment or contact me at jehowe3@gmail.com.

Let Deak inspire you, I promise you won't regret it.

With love,

Jenny Howe

(Proud mama and Race Director)