Uptown Charlotte
3 Generations of Family Members “Gump It” Uptown
“Rain or Shine” is the 5K for $5K motto and as promised, we showed up to mark our 4th Run/Walk Challenge in the heart of the Queen City: Uptown, Charlotte. Since PPA patients and their families never take a day off, neither does Run4Papa.
Despite the scattered rainstorms throughout the day, per my standard routine, I showed up 90 minutes early and placed a fishbowl on the corner of S. Tryon/Trade St (one of the most heavily traveled intersections in Uptown). Being in the financial district, there were plenty of people inquiring about THE CAUSE. Even one of Charlotte’s finest couldn’t resist coming up and supporting the journey!
Tonight was extra special because we had 3 generations of family members show up to participate. Linda Jeppson, a local woman diagnosed with PPA 7 years ago came out to run with her husband Bob, their daughter Katie, and 4 children to raise awareness for PPA.
Moreover, some friends and co-workers took an hour out of their busy day to help run up and down South Tryon Street waving our signs to all on-lookers. The entire group was “Gumping it up” and loving every bit. As I sprinted from street to street, I was having a hard time snapping pictures as this group was hauling! The level of enthusiasm was contagious as we continued lapping Uptown with our fishbowl. Rarely do I stop during a run, but curiosity dictated this action because people kept asking “Who is Papa?” “What are you guys doing?” “How can I help?” Do you have any idea how great that feels to hear?!? Phenomenal.
As momentum continues to grow for this campaign, we raised over $162 in the streets of Charlotte and
have almost reached our goal of $50,000! BUT, until we do, we will continue running a 5K every other day in hopes of spreading the word about PPA and asking 1,000 people to contribute $5 each. WE KNOW THIS CAN AND WILL BE DONE!
When is the next 5K race? Thursday, May 10th at 6:30PM. Location: 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway. This is an open invite and ALL are welcome. The more the merrier! This is your last chance to participate in the 5K for $5K Challenge. There will be live music and drinks after the run/walk at the White Water Center until 9PM.
4 successfully completed, 1 to go!
If you have any questions, please email: [email protected]
To make a donation go to: PPA Research and Education Fund (Run4Papa)