I'm ready to run.

As some of you know, my dad, Ron Smith, was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2020. My dad is my hero and is an amazing human. I chose this race to participate in as a member of the Parkinson's Champions team because my dad served in the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division in 1967 in Vietnam. 

During his short tour there he was seriously wounded and returned back to the States.  After returning, he married my mom and they went on to have 3 daughters in 4 years. When I was 6, my dad lost his predominant arm due to the injuries he sustained in Vietnam. That loss never slowed him down. He learned to golf, snow ski, and rollerblade (into his 50's much to my mother's chagrin!) after losing his arm. I never once heard him complain or say he couldn't do something because of it. He and my mom made sure we were surrounded by laughter and love. He was my biggest cheerleader whether it was playing soccer in high school or going back to law school at 45. Because of him, and what I watched him overcome, I knew that there was nothing that I couldn't accomplish.

He and my mom still enjoy traveling and have a very active social life. This disease is the one thing that could change that. But thanks to the Parkinson's Foundation and other organizations like it, the quality of life for those diagnosed is getting better and better. 

THAT is why I'm running and asking you for a donation. The Parkinson's Foundation makes life better for people living with Parkinson's disease by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. Studies show that 2.5 hours of weekly exercise along with medication, can significantly improve quality of life for people living with Parkinson's. 

We run and will continue to run for people with Parkinson's because this disease not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Every dollar counts, and no amount is too little. THANK YOU for your support!

Mk & family

P.S. If you are able to donate, here's a link to see if your employer will match your gift: https://www.parkinson.org/how-to-help/more-ways-to-give/matching-gifts.