WOW. If we could only use one word to describe the inaugural Running 4 Answers, “WOW” would have to be it.

An event that sounded like a good idea 10 months ago, turned into a very windy, but perfect morning that welcomed almost 300 runners, walkers, spectators and volunteers and raised almost $21,500 for Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. Not bad for a first try!

The list of people we have to thank is long. First on that list are the people of Cure Alzheimer’s Fund who provided us with tremendous support:  Katie Cutler, Mariah Baril-Dore, Laurel Lyle and of course, Tim Armour.

Special thanks need to go to our technical/artistic support, Chris Gieger of Gieger Visual Communications (www.gieger.com) and printer, John Moss of Galvanic Printing (www.galvanicprinting.com). These gentlemen donated ALL of their work to Running 4 Answers – graphic design, website, posters, flyers and brochures. The cost of this alone would have been a huge hit to our little race &nash; we are so grateful! Without the support of our families and friends, up to and including race day, we never would have had such success.

Running 4 Answers progressed from a vague concept that at times seemed impossible to an event that was not only a great race, but also raised awareness of Alzheimer’s disease.

We are already developing ideas to make Running 4 Answers 2011 bigger and better than this year. Our plans include becoming our own non-profit organization, investing some money in advertising, working with other races to get the word out, and finding sponsors that make sense for our cause…i.e., hospitals, assisted living facilities.

On a personal note, this race altered a situation that has been hell from the beginning and made it something constructive. Something that gave meaning to the pain that my family and I have felt over the past ten years. It did not change my mom’s situation or cure the disease, but it’s a step in the right direction.

We will be posting updates on our website as we have them.

Thank you again for your dedication and enthusiasm, and please continue to support Cure Alzheimer’s Fund and Running 4 Answers!

-Carolyn & Barbara