Children, Families, Sponsors, Partners Push Race for Every Child over $1.2 Million

Not even drizzle or downpours could dampen the spirits of the nearly 5,000 attendees at the 2016 Race for Every Child. Grateful families, corporate partners, and of course, energetic kids ran through the rain in the annual 5K and 100-yard Kid’s Dash, held at Washington, DC’s Freedom Plaza on Oct. 1. 

View photos and a social media wrap-up.

“It is tremendously inspiring to see current and past patients of Children's National, their families, friends, and neighbors come together to build healthier, stronger futures for all kids," said Dr. Kurt Newman, President and CEO of Children’s National.

The top fundraising teams were the Grateful Family team, Pippa’s Princesses, and Team Lionheart. Top individual fundraisers were Heather Goldman, Jeffrey Goldman, and Jordan Muller. In total, the event has raised more than $1.2 million so far, and donations are being accepted through Dec. 31 – show your support for kids today!

In the 5K, Sean Laffey of Arlington, Virginia took home the top prize – a colorful drawing from a young hospital patient – for his winning time of 17:11.7. Scott Anderson took second, and Matthew Rodjom took third. Natacha Esber, Alex Morris, and Talia Kahn-Kravis were the top three female finishers, respectively.

Perhaps most exciting of all was the 100-yard Kids Dash. More than 500 children sprinted to the finish line with the promise of shiny medals, Dr. Bear hugs, superhero high-fives, and accolades from family and supporters alike.

Campbell Smith Jr., age 3, was one of those excited finishers. When he was only one week old, he underwent open heart surgery at Children’s National. Now, he’s healthy and thriving, and his parents, Grace and Campbell, regularly give back to Children’s National.

“The Race for Every Child is one of our favorite events because it's a joyful celebration of children's health,” said the Smiths, the co-chairs for the 2016 event. "Children's National has had an enormous impact on our family's life, and we credit the doctors there for giving our son the hope of a healthy future. But we're not alone. Children's National touches the lives of nearly every child in our community.”