iAm Able Fitness (IAAF) will host their 2nd Annual Run N Roll-Athon on October 3, 2015 at the Miami Zoo. The event kicks off at 7:45 AM with people in wheelchairs racing against their peers, along with walkers and joggers.
As participants finish, they are directed to a gathering area where they will be provided free food and drinks with music provided by a DJ. There will be a large field and bounce house for children to play in along with a raffle for multiple items such as gift cards from various restaurants, a Marlin’s signed baseball, and other items.
“We are very excited to raise much needed funds to expand our exercise equipment, and to improve our fitness program so the paralysis community can continue to benefit and improve their health,” points out Alfredo Iglesias, IAFF Executive Director.
Nationally, according to various studies, the number of people in the United States who have Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is estimated to be approximately 273,000 persons, not including those who die at the scene of the accident, with approximately 12,000 new cases each year.
SCI primarily affects young adults. Historically, nearly half of all injuries occurred between the ages of 16 and 30, but since 2010, the average age at injury is 43 years.
Overall, 81% of spinal cord injuries reported to the national database have occurred among males. The largest cause of SCI are vehicular accidents, contributing to over 40 percent of all injuries.
“Last year’s fund raiser allowed us to distribute more than $15,000 in program grants to expand our health program and purchase new equipment to help the South Florida SCI community,” says Mr. Iglesias.
Tickets for the Run/Walk event are $40 ($20 to Roll) and include an event pass, all day Zoo pass, entertainment, refreshments, a T-shirt and a raffle ticket to win valuable prizes.
About iAm Able Fitness:
iAm Able Fitness is a non-profit organization which uses intense, exercise- based health and fitness programs to increase function and maximize independence for survivors of spinal cord injury (SCI). Our wellness programs are designed to help clients increase their independence and potential for recovery.
Our longer term mission is to raise public awareness of spinal cord injury and paralysis, by building a support community via specialized training, networking, and family liaison.
Contact
Margaret Kessler
