Kicking off Parkinson’s Awareness Month, more than 650 runners participated in RaceTrac’s Run for Research 5K in Vinings last Saturday and raised more than $65,000 for The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
A cause close to the heart of the company prompted it to get involved in reaching out to the community for a better understanding and hopes to find a cure for the disease. Carl Bolch Jr. who is the current chief executive officer of RaceTrac, has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Founder of the petroleum company, Carl Bolch Sr., also suffered from the disease.
“Because of the diagnoses and family history, we have a better understanding of what the disease is,” said Allison Moran, senior vice president of operations, and daughter of Bolch Jr. “We felt that by partnering with the Michal J. Fox Foundation, we can reach out to millions of people and raise awareness and educate our community about it. “
Parkinson's disease is a degenerative neurological disease affecting muscles in the body. The disease causes tremors, stiff muscles, slow movement, and problems with balance or walking as muscles start to deteriorate overtime. The disease affects one million people in the U.S.
The money raised will fund research. “There is no known symptom that can be traced to Parkinson’s, like high blood pressure can be linked to heart disease,” said Seanna Bruno, director of advancement for MJFF. “Through research, MJFF hopes to find triggers, improve therapies, and ultimately, find a cure.”
Communities can partake in fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for the foundation’s continued mission on research through it’s community arm, Team Fox.
RaceTrac will also continue fundraising through its Coffee For a Cause campaign that runs from April 1- 7 at all RaceTrac stores. All proceeds from coffee and World’s Finest Chocolate Bars sold will support The Michael J. Fox Foundation.
For more information on The Michael J. Fox Foundation on Parkinson’s Research, visit www.michaeljfox.org
In Other News: The 10th Annual Spring Chicken Run- A Race Against Hunger, held on March 24 in Powder Springs, raised over $20,000 for Christian Aid Mission Partnership. The money will aid C.A.M.P.'s food, clothing, and financial assistance programs that help stabilize families and prevent homelessness.
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