From The Indiana Running Company and Rita Davis
The 4th Annual Race to Recovery, a benefit for the Bret Neylon Paralysis Foundation, Inc., took place July 18 at Brownsburg East Middle School. The 5K run & walk is held every summer to raise funds for research, and this year’s event benefited three individuals who suffer from quadriplegia: Lindsay Robison, Billy Bowman, and Brandon Garner.
Lindsey, from Avon, was paralyzed in a swimming accident in 1996. Yet she has earned a degree from Indiana University, drives herself around, and works full-time. She still needs money, however, to pay for home health care such as preparing dinner, showering, dressing, and going to bed.
Billy, from Spencer, was left paralyzed from an automobile accident almost three years ago. His family has struggled financially, leaving Billy with no transportation, a half-finished handicap-accessible addition to the house, and a wheelchair that does not meet his needs.
Brandon, from Indianapolis’ northside, was paralyzed just a couple months ago during a rugby game, breaking his neck at the C2 level. Without insurance and most likely struggling to breathe on his own for the rest of his life, he will need assistance paying for medical bills.
This annual event was created in 2006 to assist Neylon and his family with expenses resulting from a biking accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Because of his amazing success – and because of the continued support and assistance from the running community – Bret and his wife, Tracie, founded the Bret Neylon Paralysis Foundation, Inc.
The organization is committed to improving the quality of life for people who suffer paralysis as a result of spinal cord injuries. Monies will go to support spinal cord research and to assist paralyzed individuals with financial support for rehabilitation, medical costs, and assisting devices.
This year’s event drew more than 700 participants and raised over $19,000 after expenses. For more information, go to racetorecovery.org.
Speaking of the event, runners competed in 11 different age groups. Here are the Top 5 finishers on the male and female side:
Men
1. John Poray, 15:37
2. Thomas Crum, 16:06
3. Andy Wilson, 16:07
4. Scott Vicenzi, 16:47
5. Pat McKenzie, 16:50
Women
1. Lucie Mays-Sulewsk, 18:12
2. Heather Cooksey, 18:50
3. Julie Shields, 18:57
4. Veronica Goduto, 19:34
5. Sydney Lesko, 19:58
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