As if being blasted with multicolor paint isn't reason enough, I'm doing this run to support the Special Olympics in honor of my cousin Alicia Pesapane......a real medal-winning Olympian and true champion. I promise to post numerous unglamorous, sweaty, paint-covered photos on FB following the run! Proceeds from tickets for the event, plus donations made through this site go directly to the aiding the efforts of the Special Olympics. 

Leave the R-Word in the dust for Special Olympics Virginia! Check out the video here http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=F0f1N_uU7uc and Like the Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/colormerad5k to show your support even if you don't donate! Look for a race near you! :)

Thank you for visiting my personal fundraising page. On October 28th I'll be joining fellow Hokies as we hit the pavement for Special Olympics Virginia. I'll be running a 5K as a pledge against the derogatory use of the R-Word. Please support my efforts! Join me in pledging just $5!

Spread the Word to End the Word(tm) is an ongoing effort by Special Olympics, Best Buddies International and our supporters to raise the consciousness of society about the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the word "retard(ed)" and encourage people to pledge to stop using the R-word.