Race Wrap-Up: Ben’s Run, Cherry Blossom Ten-Miler, Van Metre 5-Mile Run

Children’s National supporters were off to the races on April 1, supporting three running events that raised a total of $442,000 to help kids grow up stronger. April 1 also marked the opening of registration for the annual Race for Every Child 5K and Kids Dash.

Ben’s Run, in Silver Spring, Md., raised $90,000 for pediatric cancer research at Children’s National. More than 1,000 runners, walkers, and supporters attended the sixth annual event, which included 5-mile, 5K, and 1-mile races. Tom and Clare Goldfogle started the race in 2011 in memory of their son Ben, who was treated for two types of leukemia at Children’s National before losing his battle a few weeks before his 12th birthday.  See photos and learn how you can support Ben’s Run and pediatric cancer research at a fundraiser on May 18.

Children’s National received a gift of $125,000 from the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten-Miler, a major fundraising event for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN). Credit Unions for Kids is the presenting sponsor for the Cherry Blossom races and the third largest fundraising entity for CMN. More than 400 kids ran in the Kids Run on April 1. Before the event, Xochitl Vargas, 10, shared her story of being treated at Children’s National for cerebral palsy. The next day, the Cherry Blossom 10-mile and 5K races were held, with more than 15,000 runners in attendance. Carsten Connolly, 18, was on stage at the starting line before the race to inspire the runners and tell the story of his battle with leukemia and his treatment at Children’s National. See photos.

In Ashburn, Va., More than 400 racers and nearly 100 corporate and community sponsors helped the 25th annual Van Metre 5-Mile Run raise $227,000 for the Children’s National Heart Institute, with 5-mile and 1-mile races. Dr. Charles Berul, who holds the Van Metre Companies Professorship in Cardiology, competed in the race with many of his staff members and accepted the check on behalf of all of the children with cardiology conditions that are treated at Children’s National. He thanked the Van Metre family and Van Metre Companies for their longstanding support. “You really are part of our family, and because of your philanthropy, we are making great strides in our heart program,” he said. “As you have built these wonderful communities for families, you have also remained steadfastly committed to our community of kids needing specialized care for their hearts. Thank you for supporting Children’s National.” See photos.

And on Oct. 21, Children’s National will host our signature Race for Every Child 5K and Kids Dash. We hope you’ll join us for a Saturday like no other – where families and friends, avid runners and weekend joggers, and community and corporate supporters unite to make a difference for children. Just like Ben’s Run, the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Miler, and the Van Metre 5-Mile Run, the funds raised at the Race for Every Child help more kids grow up stronger. By participating, you will support expert care, groundbreaking research, and wellness programs that will improve the health and well-being of children throughout the Washington area, and beyond. Register now.

 

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