Family-friendly event aims to promote inclusion, bring cutting-edge cerebral palsy therapy to WNY
The fifth annual Walk/Run/Roll in Lauren's Shoes 5K and 1 Mile Honorary CP Walk is a unique, family-friendly event held at one of the area's most scenic summer destinations - Wilkeson Pointe at the Buffalo Outer Harbor.
This year's event will take place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Sunday, June 10. Race packets can be picked up starting at 8:30 a.m. The 1 Mile Honorary CP Walk begins at 10 a.m., while the 5K run starts at 11 a.m.
The 5K race features chip timing and a USATF-certified course. Runners and walkers can choose to wear ankle weights to simulate the physical challenges for someone living with cerebral palsy - the most common motor disability among children. Prior to the race, individuals with CP and other disabilities will be celebrated during the 1 Mile Honorary CP Walk.
Proceeds will support the Make Lemon Aide Foundation for CP's efforts to bring the Symptom Recovery Method (SRM) to WNY. This innovative, successful physical therapy protocol was created by First Step Physical Therapy in Fayetteville and Roswell, Georgia. The foundation awards grants to local families for travel and therapy at First Step, as well as provides funding for Buffalo-area physical therapists to be trained in SRM.
Lauren Walier, 20, is the founder of the Make Lemon Aide Foundation for CP. She has traveled the world performing her award-winning ballroom dance routine, "The Swan," inspired by her personal journey living with CP.
She'll be joined by Reed Kotalik, 8, who has gained national attention for his running accomplishments, despite being diagnosed with CP. He will sign his book, "Running with Reed: Be a Better Somebody."
Pre- and post-race activities of the Walk/Run/Roll in Lauren's Shoes will include: live music, lemonade and cupcake stands, face and hair painting, a bounce house, balloon animals, a juggler, Anderson's and the Blend food trucks.
Vendors such as Embrace the Difference, Spencer Jones Yoga, Synergy Wellness, Chiro One Wellness and AXA Advisors will be on hand. There will be special appearances by Sabertooth, Buster Bison, the WNY Superhero Alliance, and the SPCA "PAWS for Love" service dogs
The Walk/Run/Roll in Lauren's Shoes welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Utilizing a paved bike path, the event is accessible for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers and strollers.
Registration is available online at
www.makelemonaide.org, or on the day of the event. It costs $30 for adults and $15 for youth 18 years of age and younger.
Participants and supporters are also encouraged to join the foundation's Zest for Life online fundraising campaign.
