From a press release:
When Ethan was just 6 1/2 months old, his parents witnessed his first seizure and their lives were forever changed. After a 10-day hospital stay, he was diagnosed with little known Sturge-Weber Syndrome, one of the main symptoms of which is epilepsy. Even with medical knowledge, the family felt helpless. Ethan’s future was uncertain. He has been through numerous hospitalizations, endured multiple brain surgeries and countless hours of therapy so he can walk and play, and takes more medicines than most adults.
Now a delightful eight-year-old, his parents credit the knowledge, professionalism and compassion of Saint Barnabas Medical Center’s epilepsy team for allowing Ethan to attend school and summer camp, enjoy beach vacations and reach life’s milestones.
To raise support and awareness for pediatric epilepsy, Ethan and his family and the families of other children with epilepsy invite you to join them at the Strides for H.O.P.E. 5K Run and 2K Family Walk to benefit the Pediatric Epilepsy Program at Saint Barnabas Medical Center. The event will take place on Sunday, May 15, 2016 at the Livingston High School Oval, 30 Robert Harp Drive, Livingston, NJ. Registration opens at 8:30 am, the 5K Run and 2K Family Walk start at 10:00 am followed by the Kid Sprints at 10:45 am.
Run, walk, or simply show your support and you will help transform hospital care for the thousands of children living with epilepsy that receive expert, compassionate care at Saint Barnabas. Each and every dollar raised will result in a more comfortable, kid-friendly environment for children with epilepsy, many of whom are hospitalized for weeks to control their seizures.
Runners will enjoy a USATF-certified course that offers quick and flat sections with a few inclines. Timers at miles one and two, water stations and a clock-finish are featured. Door prizes, including an iPAD mini, will be awarded and family-friendly entertainment and refreshments are available. Race shirts are guaranteed to pre-registrants and while supplies last on event day.
Registration is $25 or $30 the day of, $22 for 2016 USATF-NJ members and free for children age 12 and under. To register and learn more: www.barnabashealth.org/strides2016 or 973-322-4305.
