Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Miami Children's Hospital 5k

On Saturday, September 29th, I scooped a sleeping Jonas from his bed in the early morning hours. We had a long drive to Coral Gables for the Miami Children's Hospital 5k Walk/Run. 10 of us became "Team Jonas" for the day, raising over $600 for the hospital and taking on the 3.1 mile challenge.

For some of my friends, this was their first 5k. They made the effort to register and participate because they love my little boy that much.
For others on the team, they reached their personal best time.

Jonas and I took the path at a medium pace. I pushed his stroller and chatted with Joel, who decided to stay with us for most of the walk. I wasn't trying to break any records. I don't have a jogging stroller, and I've been advised not to put too much strain on my already less-than-whole kneecap.

Jonas was a trooper, never once protesting about the long walk. He enjoyed taking in the pretty trees and sprawling houses in the neighborhood. He'd ask where some of our faster friends were, and I'd answer that we'd see them at the end of the race.

We arrived at the finish line at 1 hour plus a few seconds. As soon as we finished, officials were organizing the first wave of the Kids' Race. Kristina and I left Joel with Jonas's stroller and walked him over to the "Start Line".

We each held one of his hands, feeling the excitement radiate from my sweet boy as he ran as fast as any child with a whole heart. He was running carefree, full of joy, and so much of this was because he was treated with such skill and heart by the professionals at the hospital we were running for.

Jonas crossed the Finish, and a little girl was waiting with a medal that seemed to weigh as much as he does! He was so proud, he talked about racing for the rest of the day.




We stayed for an hour or so after the race, chatting with our team members to see how their run went. Jonas played on the inflatable playground and bounce house until we had to coerce him out because they were packing up for the day.

The event was sponsored by the radio station Luis works for, so we spent some time at their booth as well.

It was a great day surrounded by friends and love!

1 comment:

  1. This was a great post that I came across and an even better picture. Jonas is adorable. I am happy that you had a wonderful time at our MCH5K. Thank you so much for your support!

    Ivy Iglesias
    Annual Giving Coordinator
    Miami Children's Hospital Foundation

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