Extreme Athleticism and Generosity

by Cynthia Bauer, Kupenda Founder and Executive Director

An adult man standing outside beside two young boys

by Cynthia Bauer, Kupenda Founder and Executive Director

On April 17th, Pat Blair is celebrating his 40th birthday by running 62 miles around Patapsco Valley Park (Maryland) and raising funds for Kupenda for the Children! Pat is the co-founder of Adventures for the Cure (AFC), an organization that has raised thousands of dollars for Kupenda from the beginning…almost 20 years. His amazing wife, Lauren is also the chair of Kupenda’s board of directors. I cannot imagine where the children who have benefitted from their efforts would be without this couple and so many AFC members.

An adult male standing on top of a mountain, wearing a blue shirt

Sam Gutner, another athlete who will be joining Pat in his 62 miles run on April 17.

I asked Pat why he continues to support Kupenda, and he humbly responded,

“I know Kupenda is doing good work and saving lives and for me all this running is such a selfish thing…helps me get outside the selfish bubble of sports. You make us look less selfish. It’s a no brainer…why not? I love everything Kupenda does!”

Pat makes it clear he truly loves running and competition. This guy runs a marathon length as just a regular morning training run at a pace that qualifies him for the Boston Marathon. This is without even putting in his full effort and before his kids wake up in the morning!

Two adult men beside a woman, the man standing in the center is wearing a medal

Jon Gowen, another athlete who will be joining Pat in his 62 miles run on April 17.

We are so grateful Pat continues to channel this superhuman energy towards helping thousands of kids around the world. Pat shows us how giving also benefits the giver. “We wouldn’t work without each other [AFC and Kupenda].”

If you are a runner and live in the Maryland area, you could join Pat on part of his run or cheer him on. No matter where you are you can donate to this effort and help more kids with disabilities experience better lives. Visit the AFC Patapsco event site for details and to give.

In honor of Pat’s birthday, I might even add a few miles to my April 17th “slog.”

So thankful this guy was born!

With much gratitude,

Cynthia

 


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About the Authors


Cynthia Bauer, Kupenda Founder and Executive Director
Cynthia Bauer, Kupenda Founder and Executive Director


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