Sham-rocking for MDA
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March 2019 RJ spreading the luck of the Irish to several Applebee's locations during the month of March to support MDA and their national Shamrock program. Over 20,000 retailers across the country will sell shamrocks during the month of March in support of children/adults with neuromuscular diseases. To date, $312 million dollars has been raised by the sale of shamrocks since its inception 37 years ago. RJ took his selling skills to the lunch periods of Westlake High School and with the help of Mrs. McGinty and the Leadership Club raised over $1,000 for MDA. They rocked the shamrock! |
Cleveland Marathon
May 2018
We Run. We Raise Hope. We Rally4RJ.
Thank you for joining Team Rally4RJ.
The fight is tough.
Cure Duchenne for RJ.
Our hope is strong.
Researchers are developing treatments.
We achieved our mission.
Raised over $25,000 for PPMD.
And we had amazing donors!
Thank you for your tremendous support.
The fight is tough.
Cure Duchenne for RJ.
Our hope is strong.
Researchers are developing treatments.
We achieved our mission.
Raised over $25,000 for PPMD.
And we had amazing donors!
Thank you for your tremendous support.
NFL Draft Party
April 2018
Thanks to Steve Nock, the annual NFL Draft Party returned to Copper Cup on April 26th. Hope was fading for our beloved Browns but we ended the evening with success on both fronts- drafting Baker Mayfield and raising over $3,000 to benefit Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy. Hope is not lost. Thanks to everyone who supported this annual event.
Thanks to Steve Nock, the annual NFL Draft Party returned to Copper Cup on April 26th. Hope was fading for our beloved Browns but we ended the evening with success on both fronts- drafting Baker Mayfield and raising over $3,000 to benefit Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy. Hope is not lost. Thanks to everyone who supported this annual event.
Sham-rocking for RJ and MDA
March 2018
A special thank you to Chris Taylor, Sr. Margaret, and St. Helen School who sold shamrocks for the 9th straight year! In total the school has raised close to $8,000 for MDA and kids in Northeast Ohio. Congratulations to David O'Reilly, a second grader who won the shamrock raffle basket! A sincere thank you for the many years of commitment St. Helen School has demonstrated to MDA's Shamrock Challenge.
A special thank you to Chris Taylor, Sr. Margaret, and St. Helen School who sold shamrocks for the 9th straight year! In total the school has raised close to $8,000 for MDA and kids in Northeast Ohio. Congratulations to David O'Reilly, a second grader who won the shamrock raffle basket! A sincere thank you for the many years of commitment St. Helen School has demonstrated to MDA's Shamrock Challenge.
Run for Our Sons - NYC Marathon
November 2017
On November 5th, RJ's Uncle Tom dusted off his running sneakers and ran for PPMD's Run for Our Sons team. This year with more than 50,000 marathon finishers the NYC marathon was the largest marathon in the world. Tom hit the pavement training hard for more than 7 months for his first marathon in 20 years. His commitment to training paid off as he finished in amazing speed and injury free! Also, thank you to my sister-in-law Christine and my niece Madeleine for being an awesome cheering section and finding Tom twice during the race, which is no small feat with approximately 2.5 million spectators at this years race. Way to go Tom! You are an inspiration to all 50+ year olds that with some commitment and hard work anything is possible. We appreciate the time and effort it took to run a marathon and to raise funds/awareness for Duchenne. You rocked it! We only wish we could have seen you cross the finish line.....hopefully next time?!
On November 5th, RJ's Uncle Tom dusted off his running sneakers and ran for PPMD's Run for Our Sons team. This year with more than 50,000 marathon finishers the NYC marathon was the largest marathon in the world. Tom hit the pavement training hard for more than 7 months for his first marathon in 20 years. His commitment to training paid off as he finished in amazing speed and injury free! Also, thank you to my sister-in-law Christine and my niece Madeleine for being an awesome cheering section and finding Tom twice during the race, which is no small feat with approximately 2.5 million spectators at this years race. Way to go Tom! You are an inspiration to all 50+ year olds that with some commitment and hard work anything is possible. We appreciate the time and effort it took to run a marathon and to raise funds/awareness for Duchenne. You rocked it! We only wish we could have seen you cross the finish line.....hopefully next time?!
Coach to Cure MD - Holy Name High School
September 2017
Thank you to Coach Wondolowski and all the other coaches at Holy Name High School for being part of the 10th anniversary of the national Coach to Cure MD program. RJ enjoyed meeting all the players on the football team at practice, being included in the coin toss as honorary captain before the game, and cheering on the football team as they brought home a victory. We truly appreciate the opportunity to bring awareness of this devastating disease to the HNHS community.
Thank you to Joe and Ann Dreher for organizing the event and raffle for the Sept. 29th football game against Normandy HS.
Coach To Cure MD is a partnership between the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) and Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD), the largest national charity devoted exclusively to Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In 2008 the AFCA adopted PPMD’s Coach To Cure MD program as one of their charity efforts. One reason the AFCA was drawn to Coach To Cure MD was because of the unique parallels between Duchenne, a disorder which robs young men of precious muscle strength and college football, a game where young men are at the peak of their muscle strength.
Thank you to Coach Wondolowski and all the other coaches at Holy Name High School for being part of the 10th anniversary of the national Coach to Cure MD program. RJ enjoyed meeting all the players on the football team at practice, being included in the coin toss as honorary captain before the game, and cheering on the football team as they brought home a victory. We truly appreciate the opportunity to bring awareness of this devastating disease to the HNHS community.
Thank you to Joe and Ann Dreher for organizing the event and raffle for the Sept. 29th football game against Normandy HS.
Coach To Cure MD is a partnership between the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) and Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD), the largest national charity devoted exclusively to Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In 2008 the AFCA adopted PPMD’s Coach To Cure MD program as one of their charity efforts. One reason the AFCA was drawn to Coach To Cure MD was because of the unique parallels between Duchenne, a disorder which robs young men of precious muscle strength and college football, a game where young men are at the peak of their muscle strength.
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Pictures by Gery Petrof Photography LLC
Cleveland Marathon
May 2017
2017 marked our sixth consecutive year participating in the Cleveland Marathon. While our days of running a half marathon may not continue for six more years, we will always continue to rally for RJ and others with Duchenne. Team Rally4RJ consisted of 21 runners/walkers who logged more than 164 miles on May 21st in support of RJ and the Duchenne community. Together we raised awareness about Duchenne and funded over $28,000 to PPMD. We are sincerely grateful for your continued generosity to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy's Run for Our Sons charity program. Research for a cure is so promising now and we pray it will help RJ and boys like him have even more hope for viable treatments.
We Run. We Raise Hope. We Rally4RJ.
2017 marked our sixth consecutive year participating in the Cleveland Marathon. While our days of running a half marathon may not continue for six more years, we will always continue to rally for RJ and others with Duchenne. Team Rally4RJ consisted of 21 runners/walkers who logged more than 164 miles on May 21st in support of RJ and the Duchenne community. Together we raised awareness about Duchenne and funded over $28,000 to PPMD. We are sincerely grateful for your continued generosity to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy's Run for Our Sons charity program. Research for a cure is so promising now and we pray it will help RJ and boys like him have even more hope for viable treatments.
We Run. We Raise Hope. We Rally4RJ.
Final Four Fundraiser
April 2017
Thank you to everyone who attended our Final Four Fundraiser at The Copper Cup on April 1st. We hope everyone had fun watching the NCAA Final Four Tournament basketball games while supporting a great cause! We raised over $11,000 for PPMD. A special thank you to Steve Nock for all his efforts in helping with the fundraiser and organizing the Final Four squares game. And, to Molly and Don Moracz for donating the vacation raffle prize of a week stay at Marriott's Barony Beach Club resort in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Tracey and Terry Holecek were the lucky winners of the vacation raffle...enjoy your vacation!
Thank you to everyone who attended our Final Four Fundraiser at The Copper Cup on April 1st. We hope everyone had fun watching the NCAA Final Four Tournament basketball games while supporting a great cause! We raised over $11,000 for PPMD. A special thank you to Steve Nock for all his efforts in helping with the fundraiser and organizing the Final Four squares game. And, to Molly and Don Moracz for donating the vacation raffle prize of a week stay at Marriott's Barony Beach Club resort in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Tracey and Terry Holecek were the lucky winners of the vacation raffle...enjoy your vacation!
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A heartfelt thanks to our generous donors!
3 Palms Pizzeria & Bakery * Aladdin’s Eatery * Ann and Joe Dreher * Campell’s Sweets Factory * Cle Clothing Co. * Cleveland Metro Parks * Cleveland Orchestra * Colleen Piazza - Piazza Designs * First Watch – Rocky River * Gale’s Garden Center * Graeter’s Ice Cream * Hyatt Place @ Crocker Park * Karen Petkovic * Knuth’s * Malley’s Chocolates * Mellow Mushroom * Mitchell’s Ice Cream * Molly and Don Moracz * Newbury Printing * Ohio Wine Producers Association * Petitti Garden Center * RJ Sullivan * Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum * Sgt. Clean’s Car Wash * Studio 6a Salon & Spa * Susan Scaparotti – Red i jewelry * Sweet Designs Chocolatier |
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MDA Shamrock Challenge
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March 2017
Thank you to both St. Bernadette and St. Helen School for participating in MDA's Shamrock Challenge. Between both schools more than $3,300 was raised to help kids in Northeast Ohio who live with muscular dystrophy. Thank you to everyone who purchased a shamrock and created awareness on behalf of RJ. |
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March into Madness 4RJ and MDA
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March 2017
The 1st Annual March into Madness 4RJ and MDA was held on March 16th in St. Bernadette's gym under the direction of Brian Cook. The 8th grade boys, under the coaching direction of RJ, played a competitive game of basketball against the coaches. The coaches pulled ahead of the boys in the final couple minutes but the 8th graders made a buzzer shot and brought home a victory! Thank you to Brian Cook for organizing the event and everyone who attended this fun evening to benefit MDA. 
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Coach to Cure MD - John Carroll University
September 2016
Many thanks to Jane Evans, Assistant Athletic Director at JCU, and the John Carroll University football team under the coaching direction of Tom Arth for supporting PPMD's national Coach to Cure MD program. It was a great day watching the JCU Blue Streaks from the end zone bring home a victory. RJ had fun with JCU's ROTC squad who performed pushups every time JCU scored. GO BLUE STREAKS! |
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Cleveland Marathon
May 2016
A heartfelt thank you to our 40 runners/walkers on Team Rally4RJ who braved the 36 degree temperatures, rain, hail, and snow during the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon on May 15th.
It was cold when we started, halfway through we had pelting hail hit our faces, and then it became unbelievable as we ran in snow towards the finish line! Together our Rally4RJ team raised in excess of $21,500 for PPMD which will be used by PPMD to fund research, raise voices in Washington, and demand optimal care for all Duchenne boys.
Thank you to everyone for your support, prayers, and love. We Run. We Raise Hope. We Rally4RJ.
A heartfelt thank you to our 40 runners/walkers on Team Rally4RJ who braved the 36 degree temperatures, rain, hail, and snow during the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon on May 15th.
It was cold when we started, halfway through we had pelting hail hit our faces, and then it became unbelievable as we ran in snow towards the finish line! Together our Rally4RJ team raised in excess of $21,500 for PPMD which will be used by PPMD to fund research, raise voices in Washington, and demand optimal care for all Duchenne boys.
Thank you to everyone for your support, prayers, and love. We Run. We Raise Hope. We Rally4RJ.
Two Copper Cup Fundraisers
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April 2016
Two great events, one great location! Both the annual NFL Draft Party and the Girl's Night Out fundraisers were a huge success! Thank you to all who attended. More than $4,500 was raised to benefit PPMD. Thank you to Steve Nock for organizing the NFL Draft Party and to everyone who helped me at the Girls' Night Out. We appreciate all the support and could not do it without your love and support! |
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MDA Shamrocks for Strength, Independence and Life
March 2016
MDA had more than 25,000 retail locations around the country take part in the 2016 MDA Shamrock season. We want to thank all the locations in Northeast Ohio that sold shamrocks during the month of March. RJ was happy to visit several locations on St. Patricks Day and give them a sampling of the brownies that he baked all by himself!
A special thank you to Chris Taylor and St. Helen's School who sold shamrocks for the seventh straight year! Our family was overwhelmed by the generosity of the families at St. Helen's School. Their commitment to helping raise awareness and funds for MDA is a testament to their wonderful Christian community. Congratulations to Zach Bores, a 2nd grader who won the shamrock basket! Thank you St. Helen's School for Sham-Rocking in 2016!
MDA had more than 25,000 retail locations around the country take part in the 2016 MDA Shamrock season. We want to thank all the locations in Northeast Ohio that sold shamrocks during the month of March. RJ was happy to visit several locations on St. Patricks Day and give them a sampling of the brownies that he baked all by himself!
A special thank you to Chris Taylor and St. Helen's School who sold shamrocks for the seventh straight year! Our family was overwhelmed by the generosity of the families at St. Helen's School. Their commitment to helping raise awareness and funds for MDA is a testament to their wonderful Christian community. Congratulations to Zach Bores, a 2nd grader who won the shamrock basket! Thank you St. Helen's School for Sham-Rocking in 2016!
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Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon
May 2015
We were once again overwhelmed by your generosity to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy's Run for Our Sons program. This year, Team Rally4RJ funded close to $22,000 to help eradicate Duchenne!
Your participation is crucial to the efforts of PPMD and their ability to strategically accelerate research, raise their voices in Washington, demand optimal care for all young men, and educate the global community about Duchenne.
A heartfelt thanks from our family in helping us END DUCHENNE!
NFL Fundraiser at The Copper Cup
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April 2015
While the NFL draft was very uneventful with no hope on the horizon for the Browns, the opposite can be said for this years NFL Draft Party. Under the direction of Steve Nock and his team of supporters they went the distance and raised $2,000 to help in the fight to end Duchenne! Thank you to everyone who attended the annual fundraiser at The Copper Cup...see you next year! We have hope. We will end Duchenne! |
We Rocked MDA Shamrocks!
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March 2015
Thank you to all the businesses and schools who helped raise funds during the Shamrock Challenge. The funds raised helps families, right here in Northeast Ohio, who are living with neuromuscular diseases. This Shamrock season we had three schools selling shamrocks on behalf of RJ for MDA. At Magnificat High School, Shannon and 12 of her friends hosted a baked sale during their lunch periods. It was a tough challenge to sell baked goods at a catholic school during Lent, but they did prevail and sold enough .50 cent cookies to make over $400! St. Bernadette School, where RJ attends, also continued to sell Shamrocks and RJ was excited to help out because this year RJ is part of Student Council. Much gratitude to all the Student Council moderators who led the students in their quest to reach the pot of gold! A big thank you to my dear friend Chris Taylor who has sold shamrocks at St. Helen's School for six years and running, totaling close to $6,000 in shamrocks! May the luck of the Irish continue to be on their side! |
Baltimore Running Festival
October 2014
We decided to road trip to accomplish our next Half Marathon race and Baltimore seemed like a great place to visit. I graciously decided to head up the cheering squad with Shannon and RJ so that Joe could run. It was a beautiful Fall day for close to 28,000 participants to run along the famed Inner Harbor in Baltimore. We were among the 40,000 spectators at the finish line at Camden Yards to cheer for Joe as he crossed the finished line. He ran a great race (no injuries being the benchmark) and although marathon runners finished before his half marathon run, it did not deter from the excitement of finishing the race! Thank you to all our supporters!
We decided to road trip to accomplish our next Half Marathon race and Baltimore seemed like a great place to visit. I graciously decided to head up the cheering squad with Shannon and RJ so that Joe could run. It was a beautiful Fall day for close to 28,000 participants to run along the famed Inner Harbor in Baltimore. We were among the 40,000 spectators at the finish line at Camden Yards to cheer for Joe as he crossed the finished line. He ran a great race (no injuries being the benchmark) and although marathon runners finished before his half marathon run, it did not deter from the excitement of finishing the race! Thank you to all our supporters!
Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon
May 2014
Our team went the distance to END DUCHENNE!
The Rally4RJ team, 22 runners strong, logged 212 miles and raised over $22,000 for research! We were all inspired by RJ and his journey as we ran in the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K. The money will be used by PPMD to accelerate research on promising treatments, continue clinical trials, and to raise awareness on Capitol Hill.
The caring support of all our donors are helping PPMD make it possible for children living with Duchenne to lead stronger, longer, and more hopeful lives. We see the difference and we want to help keep the momentum going. Thank you for your compassionate support and prayers.
Our team went the distance to END DUCHENNE!
The Rally4RJ team, 22 runners strong, logged 212 miles and raised over $22,000 for research! We were all inspired by RJ and his journey as we ran in the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K. The money will be used by PPMD to accelerate research on promising treatments, continue clinical trials, and to raise awareness on Capitol Hill.
The caring support of all our donors are helping PPMD make it possible for children living with Duchenne to lead stronger, longer, and more hopeful lives. We see the difference and we want to help keep the momentum going. Thank you for your compassionate support and prayers.
We believe that a future without Duchenne is possible!
Party at Panini's
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May 2014
Much gratitude to Joe and Ann Dreher for planning an enjoyable night out at Panini's Bar & Grill in Westlake to help support all the runners on the Rally4RJ Team. The team of 22 runners will be running to END DUCHENNE in the Cleveland Marathon on May 18th. All money raised will benefit Run for Our Sons - a Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy event. Thank you to Lowe's in Rocky River for donating a grill and Fay Sharpe LLP for donating four Club Seats to an Indians Game. To all the family and friends that attended - we appreciate your continued support! We Run. We Raise hope. We Rally4RJ. |
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NFL Draft Fundraiser at Copper Cup
May 2014
The annual guys Draft Party and Fundraiser, benefiting Run for Our Sons, took place again this year at Copper Cup in Westlake with much anticipation as to who the Browns will draft and can they help resurrect our team! A huge thank you to Steve Nock for organizing and executing this annual event! Since Joe has never produced any pictures from the event (RJ and I got a quick picture before it started!) I believe the night went something like this….no more and no less.
Great Friends. Great Beer. Great Draft. Great Cause. Great amount of money raised!
Thank you to all the supporters of the NFL Draft Night Fundraiser, each and every year!
Bank of America Chicago Marathon
October 2013
Thank you Maggie O’Connor for running in the Chicago Marathon on behalf of RJ and Run for our Sons! Maggie traveled in from NYC where she works and studies while preparing to attend medical school. We heard you had an awesome race and enjoyed your first marathon in beautiful Chicago. How special it was for you to have a "curb crew" of her parents and cousin Jodie to watch her remarkable accomplishment! With all of Maggie’s speed and enthusiasm we hope to see her at another Run for our Sons race!
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, which rank as the most prestigious marathons in the world. It is an international attraction with an estimated 1.7 million spectators lining the course that runs through 29 neighborhoods. Each year, the event delivers a fast course, a first-class race experience, and helps support the more than 160 nonprofit organizations that raise funds to advance local, national, and global causes. The 45,000 marathon runners usually complete their registration in record time and the marathon is regularly sold out!
Thank you Maggie O’Connor for running in the Chicago Marathon on behalf of RJ and Run for our Sons! Maggie traveled in from NYC where she works and studies while preparing to attend medical school. We heard you had an awesome race and enjoyed your first marathon in beautiful Chicago. How special it was for you to have a "curb crew" of her parents and cousin Jodie to watch her remarkable accomplishment! With all of Maggie’s speed and enthusiasm we hope to see her at another Run for our Sons race!
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, which rank as the most prestigious marathons in the world. It is an international attraction with an estimated 1.7 million spectators lining the course that runs through 29 neighborhoods. Each year, the event delivers a fast course, a first-class race experience, and helps support the more than 160 nonprofit organizations that raise funds to advance local, national, and global causes. The 45,000 marathon runners usually complete their registration in record time and the marathon is regularly sold out!
Rock 'n' Roll Seattle Marathon
June 2013
Good weather. Good course. Good race. Great friends!
Thank you to Jen Marratt and Anne Ensminger for participating in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Seattle Half Marathon! We heard that it was a sunny day, which I am guessing added to the natural beauty of Seattle. An enormous crowd of over 20,000 runners/walkers took part in the festivities – with all the cheering, music, and fun along the course it was surely a day filled with great entertainment!
We can’t express our gratitude enough to Jen and Anne for becoming part of our West Coast Ralliers!
Good weather. Good course. Good race. Great friends!
Thank you to Jen Marratt and Anne Ensminger for participating in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Seattle Half Marathon! We heard that it was a sunny day, which I am guessing added to the natural beauty of Seattle. An enormous crowd of over 20,000 runners/walkers took part in the festivities – with all the cheering, music, and fun along the course it was surely a day filled with great entertainment!
We can’t express our gratitude enough to Jen and Anne for becoming part of our West Coast Ralliers!
Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon
May 2013
Hard to believe Joe and I ran another half marathon. We did not become better runners from our first race last year, but at least we had the experience from last year to draw upon. Joe and I kept thinking don’t stop because if we do we might not be able to start up again (ok I guess Joe wasn’t really thinking that, but I was)! Joe and I ran the race together again and that felt good for the both of us to give each other moral support. I can’t say we ran any faster. I think our times were the same as last year but that didn’t matter to us. We run because WE CAN and because WE DO what we can to raise awareness and funds for all boys who live each day with challenges that are beyond comprehension.
Our Rally4RJ team was 20 runners strong and we raised in excess of $29,000 to help accelerate research on several promising treatments!
A special shout out to Debbie Norton and Greg Strick for their awesome accomplishment in completing the marathon! It takes an enormous amount of time, effort and commitment to train for a marathon and we were honored to have them on our Rally4RJ team.
Everyone on the team went the distance to End Duchenne.
Hard to believe Joe and I ran another half marathon. We did not become better runners from our first race last year, but at least we had the experience from last year to draw upon. Joe and I kept thinking don’t stop because if we do we might not be able to start up again (ok I guess Joe wasn’t really thinking that, but I was)! Joe and I ran the race together again and that felt good for the both of us to give each other moral support. I can’t say we ran any faster. I think our times were the same as last year but that didn’t matter to us. We run because WE CAN and because WE DO what we can to raise awareness and funds for all boys who live each day with challenges that are beyond comprehension.
Our Rally4RJ team was 20 runners strong and we raised in excess of $29,000 to help accelerate research on several promising treatments!
A special shout out to Debbie Norton and Greg Strick for their awesome accomplishment in completing the marathon! It takes an enormous amount of time, effort and commitment to train for a marathon and we were honored to have them on our Rally4RJ team.
Everyone on the team went the distance to End Duchenne.
Ladies' Night Out Fundraiser
May 2013
The Ladies running in the Cleveland Marathon, Half marathon, 10K and 5K got together to host a Ladies Night Out at Panini’s in Westlake to help support the Rally4RJ Team. It was a beautiful sunny day and Panini’s was the perfect place to mingle with friends and raise awareness. The patio was open and it felt like summer time had begun. Raffling off all our baskets was fun for the 7th grade girls (running in the 5K) who came to help out. Many ladies went home with a goodie basket and even our bartender left with a beautiful necklace.
Thank you to all the companies who donated items for our raffle baskets.
Burntwood Tavern * Sweet Melissa * Mitchells Ice Cream * Cheesecake Factory * Knuths * Giant Eagle * Red i Jewelry * Dante Lucci Salon * Aveda Institute * Studio 6a * Cara’s Boutique * Casey’s Irish Import * Shine Living Gallery and Studio * Sissons Flowers & Gifts * Sweetbriar Golf Course
The Ladies running in the Cleveland Marathon, Half marathon, 10K and 5K got together to host a Ladies Night Out at Panini’s in Westlake to help support the Rally4RJ Team. It was a beautiful sunny day and Panini’s was the perfect place to mingle with friends and raise awareness. The patio was open and it felt like summer time had begun. Raffling off all our baskets was fun for the 7th grade girls (running in the 5K) who came to help out. Many ladies went home with a goodie basket and even our bartender left with a beautiful necklace.
Thank you to all the companies who donated items for our raffle baskets.
Burntwood Tavern * Sweet Melissa * Mitchells Ice Cream * Cheesecake Factory * Knuths * Giant Eagle * Red i Jewelry * Dante Lucci Salon * Aveda Institute * Studio 6a * Cara’s Boutique * Casey’s Irish Import * Shine Living Gallery and Studio * Sissons Flowers & Gifts * Sweetbriar Golf Course
Thank You to our West Coast Ralliers
September 2012
Our travels this summer took us to San Carlos, California to visit Shannon and RJ’s sweet little cousin Emma and their Uncle Dino and Aunt Maureen. Sometimes in life, the best medicine is simply being surrounded by those you love.
During our trip we had the pleasure to meet Christine Adiaz and Sarah Ciglar who are running the Disneyland Half Marathon on Sunday, September 2th as part of the Run For Our Sons Team.
This dynamic duo met at a local gym several years ago and formed an instant friendship by encouraging one another with their respective fitness goals. Even though Christine and Sarah have never run a half marathon before and they didn’t know RJ, they were inspired by RJ’s story (and of course his smiling face) and took the challenge to help make a difference in the lives of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Not only have they been busy training all summer long, they have sold raffle tickets and hosted a summertime party for friends to raise even more money. These ladies have a second career in fundraising as they have already surpassed $6,500. WOW!
Christine works with Dino and Maureen at EveryNetwork in California where we hear that her coworkers have been very supportive of her fundraising efforts. We are blessed to have love and support from new “RJ ralliers” 2,500 miles away on the west coast…THANK YOU CHRISTINE AND SARAH and their fan club! We wish them an amazing first ever half marathon run in Disneyland. As Shannon told us recently during a special in house spa treatment she gave everyone in the family.....“Relax, Peace, & Enjoy!”
Our travels this summer took us to San Carlos, California to visit Shannon and RJ’s sweet little cousin Emma and their Uncle Dino and Aunt Maureen. Sometimes in life, the best medicine is simply being surrounded by those you love.
During our trip we had the pleasure to meet Christine Adiaz and Sarah Ciglar who are running the Disneyland Half Marathon on Sunday, September 2th as part of the Run For Our Sons Team.
This dynamic duo met at a local gym several years ago and formed an instant friendship by encouraging one another with their respective fitness goals. Even though Christine and Sarah have never run a half marathon before and they didn’t know RJ, they were inspired by RJ’s story (and of course his smiling face) and took the challenge to help make a difference in the lives of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Not only have they been busy training all summer long, they have sold raffle tickets and hosted a summertime party for friends to raise even more money. These ladies have a second career in fundraising as they have already surpassed $6,500. WOW!
Christine works with Dino and Maureen at EveryNetwork in California where we hear that her coworkers have been very supportive of her fundraising efforts. We are blessed to have love and support from new “RJ ralliers” 2,500 miles away on the west coast…THANK YOU CHRISTINE AND SARAH and their fan club! We wish them an amazing first ever half marathon run in Disneyland. As Shannon told us recently during a special in house spa treatment she gave everyone in the family.....“Relax, Peace, & Enjoy!”
Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon
May 2012
Joe and I are embarking on a new adventure on May 20th. We are both running a half marathon in the 35th annual Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon! PPMD has recently added the Cleveland Marathon to their list of races as part of their fundraising program called Run for Our Sons.
In 2005, PPMD organized the first Run for Our Sons team. Today, Run For Our Sons has become a major fundraising awareness program for PPMD, with teams competing in some of the country's most prestigious marathons and raising over $5 million dollars.
We are passionate about sponsoring PPMD's mission....to improve the treatment, quality of life and long-term outlook for all individuals affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
To learn more about PPMD's goals please visit their 2011 report card.
We feel blessed to have a team of seventeen friends and family join us as runners on May 19th and 20th. Please visit our fundraising page if you would like to make a donation to the team or if you are interested in joining our team as runner (5K, 10K, and half or full marathon races available).
We greatly appreciate all your past support and prayers for RJ. God bless all of you for your love and generosity.
Joe and I are embarking on a new adventure on May 20th. We are both running a half marathon in the 35th annual Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon! PPMD has recently added the Cleveland Marathon to their list of races as part of their fundraising program called Run for Our Sons.
In 2005, PPMD organized the first Run for Our Sons team. Today, Run For Our Sons has become a major fundraising awareness program for PPMD, with teams competing in some of the country's most prestigious marathons and raising over $5 million dollars.
We are passionate about sponsoring PPMD's mission....to improve the treatment, quality of life and long-term outlook for all individuals affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
To learn more about PPMD's goals please visit their 2011 report card.
We feel blessed to have a team of seventeen friends and family join us as runners on May 19th and 20th. Please visit our fundraising page if you would like to make a donation to the team or if you are interested in joining our team as runner (5K, 10K, and half or full marathon races available).
We greatly appreciate all your past support and prayers for RJ. God bless all of you for your love and generosity.
Evening in Paris
April 2012
Thank you to Trish and Rich Koodrich for hosting an Evening in Paris at Picc-A-Deli Cafe.
Special thanks to Shannon McIntrye and Shannon Sullivan for all their hard work as the waitresses of the evening. All proceeds from the event went to support Run for Our Sons at the Cleveland Rite Aid Marathon. If you haven't already been to Picc-A-Deli Cafe (25022 Center Ridge Road), please stop in and check out there delicious menu. You won't be disappointed!
Thank you to Trish and Rich Koodrich for hosting an Evening in Paris at Picc-A-Deli Cafe.
Special thanks to Shannon McIntrye and Shannon Sullivan for all their hard work as the waitresses of the evening. All proceeds from the event went to support Run for Our Sons at the Cleveland Rite Aid Marathon. If you haven't already been to Picc-A-Deli Cafe (25022 Center Ridge Road), please stop in and check out there delicious menu. You won't be disappointed!
MDA Shamrock Challenge
March 2012
MDA's Shamrock fundraising campaign celebrates its 30th year this year!
We are excited to have St. Bernadette, St. Helen, St. Raphael, Lee Burneson Middle School and Great Lakes Brewing Company on board to help make everything a little more green and gold for St. Patrick's Day.
Good luck to all the students who are working hard to sell shamrocks at their respective schools in order to help all families living with neuromuscular diseases.
What Your MDA Dollars Will Buy:
MDA's Shamrock fundraising campaign celebrates its 30th year this year!
We are excited to have St. Bernadette, St. Helen, St. Raphael, Lee Burneson Middle School and Great Lakes Brewing Company on board to help make everything a little more green and gold for St. Patrick's Day.
Good luck to all the students who are working hard to sell shamrocks at their respective schools in order to help all families living with neuromuscular diseases.
What Your MDA Dollars Will Buy:
- 77 percent of every dollar MDA spends goes directly to research, services and education; 14 percent to fundraising; and 9 percent for administration costs.
- MDA spends $74 a minute in its worldwide research program, supporting more than 330 projects.
- MDA maintains 200 clinics throughout the U.S.
- MDA annually sponsors nearly 80 weeklong summer camp sessions, serving approximately 3,500 children across the country. More than 5,200 volunteers give a week of their time to serve as MDA camp counselors and medical staff.
Coach to Cure MD
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October 2011
For the past two years, our family has hosted a Coach to Cure MD tailgate party at the Winking Lizard to raise awareness for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This year, we teamed up with area schools to help spread this grassroots effort to other families, coaches and players in hopes of coming together as one team in this fight to find a cure. |
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On Saturday Sept. 24th national coverage and awareness of Duchenne occurred at over 500 football games all across the country. This year PPMD exceeded one million dollars in funds raised from Coach to Cure MD grassroots events nationwide!
Our family hosted a Coach to Cure MD event during the Holy Name High School game on Sat. Oct 1st and the John Carroll University game on Sat. Oct 15th. The weather was not cooperative with both below average temperatures and wind advisories! However, not only did both teams bring home a victory, we all came together to tackle Duchenne. Special thanks to Coach Pinzone at Holy Name and Coach Scafe at JCU!
Thank you to everyone who helped contribute more than $7,500 to fund critical Duchenne research!
We are continually inspired by the strength of our family and friends in our community. We realize that we can't do it alone and, with you on our team, we don't have to. Thank you for your constant support and loving prayers.
Our family hosted a Coach to Cure MD event during the Holy Name High School game on Sat. Oct 1st and the John Carroll University game on Sat. Oct 15th. The weather was not cooperative with both below average temperatures and wind advisories! However, not only did both teams bring home a victory, we all came together to tackle Duchenne. Special thanks to Coach Pinzone at Holy Name and Coach Scafe at JCU!
Thank you to everyone who helped contribute more than $7,500 to fund critical Duchenne research!
We are continually inspired by the strength of our family and friends in our community. We realize that we can't do it alone and, with you on our team, we don't have to. Thank you for your constant support and loving prayers.
Jett Riders
July 2011
The JettRide is a cross country bike-a-thon for teens to raise funds and awareness to fight Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The JettRide is part of the Jett Foundation, founded in 2001.
The 2011 JettRide began on July 5th in Minnesota and ended 1,500 miles away on August 6th in Point Pleasant, New Jersey. We had the pleasure to meet this amazing group of teens when they were riding through Cleveland and stopped at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The teens enjoyed a break from cycling and toured the museum and we had lunch with the riders. Most of the riders have a sibling or know someone with Duchenne. We were truly inspired by the commitment and effort the teens showed to support there loved ones affected by Duchenne.
Local coverage of the event with our friends…the Wolf family.
The JettRide is a cross country bike-a-thon for teens to raise funds and awareness to fight Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The JettRide is part of the Jett Foundation, founded in 2001.
The 2011 JettRide began on July 5th in Minnesota and ended 1,500 miles away on August 6th in Point Pleasant, New Jersey. We had the pleasure to meet this amazing group of teens when they were riding through Cleveland and stopped at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The teens enjoyed a break from cycling and toured the museum and we had lunch with the riders. Most of the riders have a sibling or know someone with Duchenne. We were truly inspired by the commitment and effort the teens showed to support there loved ones affected by Duchenne.
Local coverage of the event with our friends…the Wolf family.
Pink Dragons Club
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May 2011
Three cheers to the Pink Dragons Club! What a remarkable group of young girls in the 5th and 6th grade at Pembroke Intermediate School in Corfu, New York. The club was formed several years ago to focus on female leadership, positive peer relationships, teamwork, and community service. The girls worked hard and raised over $200 for the Achievement Centers for Children. All the Pink Dragons should be proud of their accomplishment....GIRLS ROCK! |
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MDA Shamrock Challenge
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March 2011
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May your day be touched by a bit of Irish luck, brightened by a song in your heart, and warmed by the smiles of the people you love. |
So many leprechauns were busy selling shamrocks for RJ and all of "Jerry's Kids!" We will reach the Pot of Gold at the end of the rainbow! Thank you to the following schools and businesses for taking part in the 2011 Shamrock Challenge on behalf of the Sullivan family and MDA of Northeast Ohio. Over $9,000 was raised and will be put into the hands of scientists who are working more then ever before to find a treatment and cure for muscular dystrophy.
St. Bernadette School * St. Helen School * St. Joseph School * Ichiban Salon & Day Spa * Great Lakes Brewing Co. * Westlake Rec Center
St. Bernadette School * St. Helen School * St. Joseph School * Ichiban Salon & Day Spa * Great Lakes Brewing Co. * Westlake Rec Center
Thank you to All Our Supporters
December 2010
Our heartfelt thanks to our generous family and friends who over the last two years have helped Rally4RJ raise almost $50,000 toward MD research under the banners of Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Momentum in the research arena is changing for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Today, on the clinical trials website (enter Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in the search box) there are 50 studies listed. Only ten years ago, the number was three. While we wish there was even more studies and human trials we feel like the Duchenne community is learning, growing, and making progress towards finding a treatment and cure.
Our heartfelt thanks to our generous family and friends who over the last two years have helped Rally4RJ raise almost $50,000 toward MD research under the banners of Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Momentum in the research arena is changing for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Today, on the clinical trials website (enter Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in the search box) there are 50 studies listed. Only ten years ago, the number was three. While we wish there was even more studies and human trials we feel like the Duchenne community is learning, growing, and making progress towards finding a treatment and cure.
Chicago Marathon
October 2010
We feel extremely blessed to have two very special people joining the Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy Run for Our Sons team at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, scheduled for October 10th. They are running on behalf of RJ. The Run for Our Sons team is a group of families and friends who proudly run the 26.2 miles to help raise funds and awareness for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
My sister Julie continues her love of running and is fueled by a personal mission: helping RJ. Her 10 years of Marathon running have taken her to New York City, San Francisco, San Diego, Portland, Cleveland, Eugene, and Alaska. When asked how many marathons, half marathons, triathlons, and relay-team races she has run, Julie says she has stopped counting. God Bless her healthy feet! Thank you, Julie.
My friend (and hairdresser at Bella Capelli) Nicole continues her recent addiction to marathons and triathlons by running her first Chicago Marathon for RJ. RJ is her buddy at Bella Capelli. Let’s just say that RJ does not make it easy for Nicole since he has never been fond of the hair-cutting experience—only the treat afterwards! Thank goodness Nicole is patient and understands boys. We are extremely touched that Nicole is part of the PPMD team. Thank you, Nicole.
Julie and Nicole, we will think of you both during your endless training this summer. We are grateful for your time, effort, commitment, and love. Your passion for running will make a difference for RJ and all boys whose lives have been altered by DMD. Together we can end Duchenne!
The Chicago Marathon is a spectacular, fun event. A record forty thousand runners from all 50 states and more than 100 countries wound their way around 29 Chicago neighborhoods cheered on by 1.5 million spectators. Of that number, 10,000 ran for charitable causes including the 90 runners who ran for Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy.
We stayed with our good friend Jodie Laughlin who lives one house away from the 9.3 mile point of the race. She hosts a marathon party each year and over 50 people came to Rally 4 RJ and all the runners.
Julie and Nicole surpassed their fundraising goal and Rally 4 RJ has contributed over $14,000 (and counting - not too late to donate to the marathon) to fund critical DMD research. Additionally, PPMD exceeded their goal with $166,000 raised at the Chicago Marathon!
Once again we want you to know how appreciative we are of your loving support and continued prayers for RJ.
We have hope, we have love, and we have such great support. We will find a cure!
We feel extremely blessed to have two very special people joining the Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy Run for Our Sons team at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, scheduled for October 10th. They are running on behalf of RJ. The Run for Our Sons team is a group of families and friends who proudly run the 26.2 miles to help raise funds and awareness for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
My sister Julie continues her love of running and is fueled by a personal mission: helping RJ. Her 10 years of Marathon running have taken her to New York City, San Francisco, San Diego, Portland, Cleveland, Eugene, and Alaska. When asked how many marathons, half marathons, triathlons, and relay-team races she has run, Julie says she has stopped counting. God Bless her healthy feet! Thank you, Julie.
My friend (and hairdresser at Bella Capelli) Nicole continues her recent addiction to marathons and triathlons by running her first Chicago Marathon for RJ. RJ is her buddy at Bella Capelli. Let’s just say that RJ does not make it easy for Nicole since he has never been fond of the hair-cutting experience—only the treat afterwards! Thank goodness Nicole is patient and understands boys. We are extremely touched that Nicole is part of the PPMD team. Thank you, Nicole.
Julie and Nicole, we will think of you both during your endless training this summer. We are grateful for your time, effort, commitment, and love. Your passion for running will make a difference for RJ and all boys whose lives have been altered by DMD. Together we can end Duchenne!
The Chicago Marathon is a spectacular, fun event. A record forty thousand runners from all 50 states and more than 100 countries wound their way around 29 Chicago neighborhoods cheered on by 1.5 million spectators. Of that number, 10,000 ran for charitable causes including the 90 runners who ran for Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy.
We stayed with our good friend Jodie Laughlin who lives one house away from the 9.3 mile point of the race. She hosts a marathon party each year and over 50 people came to Rally 4 RJ and all the runners.
Julie and Nicole surpassed their fundraising goal and Rally 4 RJ has contributed over $14,000 (and counting - not too late to donate to the marathon) to fund critical DMD research. Additionally, PPMD exceeded their goal with $166,000 raised at the Chicago Marathon!
Once again we want you to know how appreciative we are of your loving support and continued prayers for RJ.
We have hope, we have love, and we have such great support. We will find a cure!
Winking Lizard Coach to Cure MD Fundraiser
September 2010
We would like to thank all who attended and gave so generously at our 2nd Annual Coach to Cure MD Football Fundraiser to Benefit Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy on September 25th. Special thanks to Jim Elliott at the Winking Lizard Tavern in Lakewood for donating the room and bowling lane rental and all his support of our cause and efforts the night of the event. Thanks also to all the companies and families who donated items for the Chinese Raffle baskets. We hope everyone enjoyed their chance at almost 40 raffle baskets this year.
Please support the companies who donated to our event…
Winking Lizard Tavern, Brio Tuscan Grille, Bonne Bell, Sheila Bee Designs, Custom jewelry by Lori Paximadis, Embellish, Bella Capelli Sanctuario, Knuth’s, Studio South Photography, Love & Laughter Card & Gift, Malley’s Chocolates, Artist for a Day, Fairview Lanes, Bay Lanes, Buckeye Lanes, Caribou Coffee, Mojo’s, Nicky Nicole, Cookies by Design, Friendly’s, Mitchell’s, Learning Express, Mallard Creek Golf Club, Pine Hills Golf Club, Sweetbriar Golf & Pro Shop, Live Fit Personal Training, Sweet Basil, Residence Inn of Westlake, Sweet Melissa, St. Ignatius High School
On September 25th, PPMD raised over $270,000 from Coach to Cure grassroots events all around the country. Over 500 colleges and high schools participated and 8,700 coaches wore patches declaring their support for Coach to Cure MD.
Thank you for being a part of our team! We have to admit that sometimes it is easy to think how can our small party (in the whole scheme of things) make a real difference? But it wasn’t just our event it was all the events around the country on September 25th that collectively made a difference and helped raise awareness to this devastating genetic disorder. We should all feel good that we got involved and are trying to affect change.
No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.
What is Coach to Cure MD?
Coach to Cure MD is a partnership between the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), a professional organization for over 10,000 college football coaches and staff, and Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, the largest national charity devoted exclusively to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. In 2008 the AFCA adopted PPMD’s Coach to Cure MD program as one of its charity efforts. One reason the AFCA was drawn to Coach to Cure MD was because of the unique parallels between Duchenne, a disorder which robs young men of precious muscle strength, and college football, a game where young men are at the peak of their muscle strength.
The goals of Coach to Cure MD are simple: raise national awareness of the disorder and raise money to fund research for a cure. One football Saturday each season (this year September 25, 2010) AFCA coaches nationwide agree to promote Coach to Cure MD by wearing armbands, mentioning Coach to Cure MD during on – and off-field interviews, and in some instances doing even more extensive media relations around the date.
We would like to thank all who attended and gave so generously at our 2nd Annual Coach to Cure MD Football Fundraiser to Benefit Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy on September 25th. Special thanks to Jim Elliott at the Winking Lizard Tavern in Lakewood for donating the room and bowling lane rental and all his support of our cause and efforts the night of the event. Thanks also to all the companies and families who donated items for the Chinese Raffle baskets. We hope everyone enjoyed their chance at almost 40 raffle baskets this year.
Please support the companies who donated to our event…
Winking Lizard Tavern, Brio Tuscan Grille, Bonne Bell, Sheila Bee Designs, Custom jewelry by Lori Paximadis, Embellish, Bella Capelli Sanctuario, Knuth’s, Studio South Photography, Love & Laughter Card & Gift, Malley’s Chocolates, Artist for a Day, Fairview Lanes, Bay Lanes, Buckeye Lanes, Caribou Coffee, Mojo’s, Nicky Nicole, Cookies by Design, Friendly’s, Mitchell’s, Learning Express, Mallard Creek Golf Club, Pine Hills Golf Club, Sweetbriar Golf & Pro Shop, Live Fit Personal Training, Sweet Basil, Residence Inn of Westlake, Sweet Melissa, St. Ignatius High School
On September 25th, PPMD raised over $270,000 from Coach to Cure grassroots events all around the country. Over 500 colleges and high schools participated and 8,700 coaches wore patches declaring their support for Coach to Cure MD.
Thank you for being a part of our team! We have to admit that sometimes it is easy to think how can our small party (in the whole scheme of things) make a real difference? But it wasn’t just our event it was all the events around the country on September 25th that collectively made a difference and helped raise awareness to this devastating genetic disorder. We should all feel good that we got involved and are trying to affect change.
No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.
What is Coach to Cure MD?
Coach to Cure MD is a partnership between the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), a professional organization for over 10,000 college football coaches and staff, and Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, the largest national charity devoted exclusively to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. In 2008 the AFCA adopted PPMD’s Coach to Cure MD program as one of its charity efforts. One reason the AFCA was drawn to Coach to Cure MD was because of the unique parallels between Duchenne, a disorder which robs young men of precious muscle strength, and college football, a game where young men are at the peak of their muscle strength.
The goals of Coach to Cure MD are simple: raise national awareness of the disorder and raise money to fund research for a cure. One football Saturday each season (this year September 25, 2010) AFCA coaches nationwide agree to promote Coach to Cure MD by wearing armbands, mentioning Coach to Cure MD during on – and off-field interviews, and in some instances doing even more extensive media relations around the date.
Chick-Fil-A Iron Chef Cook Off
June 2010
The Sullivans helped judge the Chick-Fil-A Iron Chef Cook Off at the Westgate Chick-Fil-A restaurant. Fire fighters from Fairview Park and Rocky River participated in the event to help raise money for MDA. All the food was delicious, but after the votes were counted, the Panini-style sandwiches prepared by the Fairview Park firefighters secured their first-place trophy win. The winners were also the proud recipients of a new grill, which was generously donated by Lowe’s (of Rocky River).
Thanks to Dan Curran at Chick-Fil-A for hosting the event, George Kraus from the Rocky River Fire Department, JD Weinberg from the Fairview Fire Department, Jen Demaline from Lowe’s, Kenny Crumpton from Fox 8, and Mayor Eileen Patton of Fairview Park for taking the time to support the efforts of MDA. As a family that is the recipient of many services provided by MDA, we thank you for caring!
The Sullivans helped judge the Chick-Fil-A Iron Chef Cook Off at the Westgate Chick-Fil-A restaurant. Fire fighters from Fairview Park and Rocky River participated in the event to help raise money for MDA. All the food was delicious, but after the votes were counted, the Panini-style sandwiches prepared by the Fairview Park firefighters secured their first-place trophy win. The winners were also the proud recipients of a new grill, which was generously donated by Lowe’s (of Rocky River).
Thanks to Dan Curran at Chick-Fil-A for hosting the event, George Kraus from the Rocky River Fire Department, JD Weinberg from the Fairview Fire Department, Jen Demaline from Lowe’s, Kenny Crumpton from Fox 8, and Mayor Eileen Patton of Fairview Park for taking the time to support the efforts of MDA. As a family that is the recipient of many services provided by MDA, we thank you for caring!
MDA Shamrock Challenge
March 2010
During the month of March, friends were very busy selling shamrocks!! Our heartfelt thanks go out to the following schools and businesses that took part in the Shamrock Challenge on behalf of the Sullivan family.
St. Bernadette School * St. Helen School * Madison High School * Bella Capelli Sanctuario * Westlake Rec Center
Special thanks to the following individuals for your time, energy, and commitment to helping raise awareness and funds as part of MDA’s quest to find a cure!
Mrs. Nancy Noga, Mrs. Karen Casey, Mrs. Noreen Hollo, Vincent Hwang, and Izzie Lyons (St. Bernadette School)
Christine Taylor (St. Helen School)
Alex Gregory (Madison High School)
Sandy Borrelli and Serina Peck (Bella Capelli Sanctuario)
Rachel O’Malley and Angela Zavagno (Westlake Rec Center)
Thank you to RJ's school, St. Bernadette, where hard work, determination and the luck of the Irish helped the Student Council exceed their impressive goal and raise $7,862. As RJ would currently say…that would buy a lot of Lego’s!!! In total, the five shamrock challenge locations raised almost $11,000 to benefit muscular dystrophy research.
During the month of March, friends were very busy selling shamrocks!! Our heartfelt thanks go out to the following schools and businesses that took part in the Shamrock Challenge on behalf of the Sullivan family.
St. Bernadette School * St. Helen School * Madison High School * Bella Capelli Sanctuario * Westlake Rec Center
Special thanks to the following individuals for your time, energy, and commitment to helping raise awareness and funds as part of MDA’s quest to find a cure!
Mrs. Nancy Noga, Mrs. Karen Casey, Mrs. Noreen Hollo, Vincent Hwang, and Izzie Lyons (St. Bernadette School)
Christine Taylor (St. Helen School)
Alex Gregory (Madison High School)
Sandy Borrelli and Serina Peck (Bella Capelli Sanctuario)
Rachel O’Malley and Angela Zavagno (Westlake Rec Center)
Thank you to RJ's school, St. Bernadette, where hard work, determination and the luck of the Irish helped the Student Council exceed their impressive goal and raise $7,862. As RJ would currently say…that would buy a lot of Lego’s!!! In total, the five shamrock challenge locations raised almost $11,000 to benefit muscular dystrophy research.
ING New York City Marathon
November 2009
RJ's Aunt Julie dedicated her 26.2 mile run in the ING New York City marathon in support of RJ. What a beautiful day in NYC forAunt Julie to run in the most prestigious marathon in the country! She was honored to be part of 50 runners on the Run for Our Sons team sponsored by Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy. Collectively, the team raised approximately $300,000 for DMD.
With her sprained ankle securely wrapped and barely recovered from a cold she had the previous week, Julie got up at 6:00am to take the ferry to Staten Island to be among 40,000 runners waiting for their scheduled start time. She was in the second wave which meant waiting until 10:00am to begin her marathon run. Julie later told us that she could not lie, “I had to dig deep to keep on going!” RJ’s name was written in pen on her hand as a constant reminder. As we stood watching a continuous stream of runners from all around the world be part of such an extraordinary race, I was saddened to think that RJ will never be able to run a marathon. It wasn’t long after that we saw two women taking turns pushing a young girl in a wheelchair; they were all partaking in the marathon! All things are possible. The glass is still half full.
RJ's Aunt Julie dedicated her 26.2 mile run in the ING New York City marathon in support of RJ. What a beautiful day in NYC forAunt Julie to run in the most prestigious marathon in the country! She was honored to be part of 50 runners on the Run for Our Sons team sponsored by Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy. Collectively, the team raised approximately $300,000 for DMD.
With her sprained ankle securely wrapped and barely recovered from a cold she had the previous week, Julie got up at 6:00am to take the ferry to Staten Island to be among 40,000 runners waiting for their scheduled start time. She was in the second wave which meant waiting until 10:00am to begin her marathon run. Julie later told us that she could not lie, “I had to dig deep to keep on going!” RJ’s name was written in pen on her hand as a constant reminder. As we stood watching a continuous stream of runners from all around the world be part of such an extraordinary race, I was saddened to think that RJ will never be able to run a marathon. It wasn’t long after that we saw two women taking turns pushing a young girl in a wheelchair; they were all partaking in the marathon! All things are possible. The glass is still half full.
Holy Name High School Hosts Coach to Cure MD
October 2009
Rally4RJ teamed up with the Holy Name High School football team to defeat DMD. Under the guidance of Rebecca and Danny Dreher, the team spread the Coach to Cure MD word at their Oct. 16th game against Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin. While the team did not bring home a victory for their school, they were all winners in conquering DMD. It was an unseasonably cold and rainy night at Brooklyn Stadium in Parma Heights, Ohio but spirits were high at the Coach to Cure MD tent. A bake sale, face painting, and raffle basket keep friends busy as they worked hard to raise money for DMD. Next year we will have hot chocolate to ward off the cold!
Everyone can make a difference in the fight against DMD and on Oct. 16th high school students Rebecca and Danny Dreher and friends proved just that. The game is always on so we must continue to Rally4RJ and be ready to defeat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Rally4RJ teamed up with the Holy Name High School football team to defeat DMD. Under the guidance of Rebecca and Danny Dreher, the team spread the Coach to Cure MD word at their Oct. 16th game against Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin. While the team did not bring home a victory for their school, they were all winners in conquering DMD. It was an unseasonably cold and rainy night at Brooklyn Stadium in Parma Heights, Ohio but spirits were high at the Coach to Cure MD tent. A bake sale, face painting, and raffle basket keep friends busy as they worked hard to raise money for DMD. Next year we will have hot chocolate to ward off the cold!
Everyone can make a difference in the fight against DMD and on Oct. 16th high school students Rebecca and Danny Dreher and friends proved just that. The game is always on so we must continue to Rally4RJ and be ready to defeat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Winking Lizard Coach to Cure MD Fundraiser
September 2009
We hosted our first annual football fundraiser for family and friends. The fundraiser took place Saturday Sept 26th at the Winking Lizard in Lakewood, Ohio from 5-10p.m. All proceeds benefited Coach To Cure MD.
Coach To Cure MD is a partnership between the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), a professional organization for over 10,000 college football coaches and staff, and Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD). In 2008 the AFCA adopted PPMD’s Coach To Cure MD program as one of their charity efforts. One reason the AFCA was drawn to Coach To Cure MD was because of the unique parallels between Duchenne, a disorder which robs young men of precious muscle strength and college football, a game where young men are at the peak of their muscle strength.
The goals of Coach To Cure MD are simple: raise national awareness of the disorder and raise money to fund research for a cure. On one football Saturday of each season, AFCA coaches nationwide agree to promote Coach To Cure MD by wearing armbands and mentioning Coach To Cure MD during on and off-field interviews.
We were overwhelmed at our first fundraiser with the feeling of love and support. Thank you to everyone who attended the event and/or made a donation to make it so successful. We hope everyone had a good time. The night belonged to the bowlers and their quest to bowl nonstop! Food was barely a deterrent for the kids. RJ’s two Grandmother’s who were unknowingly put in charge of watching the kids bowl quickly needed reinforcements! Thank goodness all the kids went home with 10 fingers and 10 toes. We raised $4,650 for PPMD and their tireless efforts to find a cure. Please continue to pray for a cure.
We hosted our first annual football fundraiser for family and friends. The fundraiser took place Saturday Sept 26th at the Winking Lizard in Lakewood, Ohio from 5-10p.m. All proceeds benefited Coach To Cure MD.
Coach To Cure MD is a partnership between the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), a professional organization for over 10,000 college football coaches and staff, and Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD). In 2008 the AFCA adopted PPMD’s Coach To Cure MD program as one of their charity efforts. One reason the AFCA was drawn to Coach To Cure MD was because of the unique parallels between Duchenne, a disorder which robs young men of precious muscle strength and college football, a game where young men are at the peak of their muscle strength.
The goals of Coach To Cure MD are simple: raise national awareness of the disorder and raise money to fund research for a cure. On one football Saturday of each season, AFCA coaches nationwide agree to promote Coach To Cure MD by wearing armbands and mentioning Coach To Cure MD during on and off-field interviews.
We were overwhelmed at our first fundraiser with the feeling of love and support. Thank you to everyone who attended the event and/or made a donation to make it so successful. We hope everyone had a good time. The night belonged to the bowlers and their quest to bowl nonstop! Food was barely a deterrent for the kids. RJ’s two Grandmother’s who were unknowingly put in charge of watching the kids bowl quickly needed reinforcements! Thank goodness all the kids went home with 10 fingers and 10 toes. We raised $4,650 for PPMD and their tireless efforts to find a cure. Please continue to pray for a cure.
MDA Stride & Ride
August 2009
Our family and friends participated in the Muscular Dystrophy Association Stride & Ride, “A Walk on the Wild Side” at Crocker Park in Westlake, Ohio. The one-mile victory walk and family cookout helped raise awareness and funds to provide families with medical care and fund research for neuromuscular diseases.
Thank you to everyone who came to support RJ and our family.
Our family and friends participated in the Muscular Dystrophy Association Stride & Ride, “A Walk on the Wild Side” at Crocker Park in Westlake, Ohio. The one-mile victory walk and family cookout helped raise awareness and funds to provide families with medical care and fund research for neuromuscular diseases.
Thank you to everyone who came to support RJ and our family.
Local Firefighters Fill-the-Boot Campaign for MDA
August 2009
We visited the local fire station to thank the firefighters for their support during the Fill-the-Boot campaign for MDA. Like clockwork our tour ended and a call was dispatched for a paramedic truck. We watched as the paramedic truck drove out of the station with sirens wailing and lights flashing!
Thank you to all the firefighters who participate in Fill-the-Boot during the Labor Day Telethon!
We visited the local fire station to thank the firefighters for their support during the Fill-the-Boot campaign for MDA. Like clockwork our tour ended and a call was dispatched for a paramedic truck. We watched as the paramedic truck drove out of the station with sirens wailing and lights flashing!
Thank you to all the firefighters who participate in Fill-the-Boot during the Labor Day Telethon!