Samantha and Tyler Staab
TylersHope.org
If you’re the type who’s always making excuses about why you can’t get fit, stop doing it for you! OK, I really do want you to be fit “for you”, but really … if it takes an act of altruism to get you off your duff and out on the pavement then I’ll take that too. Some friends of mine are running the famous 199 mile Ragnar team relay race which goes from Miami to Key West, and they’ve chosen a pretty awesome reason to do so. Two local children (a brother and sister) Tyler and Samantha Staab suffer from Dystonia which is: a neurological movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, which force certain parts of the body into abnormal, sometimes painful, movements or postures. Dystonia can affect any part of the body including the arms and legs, trunk, neck, eyelids, face, or vocal cords. Their parents have set up a foundation to help find a cure called Tyler’s Hope.
Team T200
Running 199 miles to cure Dystonia
These kids and their parents would give anything, and I do mean ANYTHING to have the luxury of walking, running or doing any other sort of physical activity without difficulty. Are we lucky to have bodies which simply get “tired” from a tough workout? Hell yes we are! Should we use that great gift to do something for others less fortunate? I think we should. Is it OK if that effort also leads us towards a path of better physical fitness? You’re darn right it is. So with tragedy surrounding us lately, leaving us feeling helpless, charitable runs, walks and dance-a-thons are things we can do to make a positive difference in the lives of others and our own.
Feeling pressured? Good. So do like my pals are doing this January 4th and 5th. Sign up for a race, give or raise some funds and make 2013 the year you do good for yourself and for others, without any excuses.
Learn more about Dystonia and Tyler’s Hope here. Consider making a donation as well. Let’s get Tyler and Samantha up and running again!
