MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) – The Manhattan community laced up and put its best foot forward in support of those with Parkinson’s Disease on Saturday.
Meadowlark, a non-profit organization in Manhattan, hosted its annual Speedy PD 5K/10K Race and Memorial Run/Walk at Tuttle Creek State Park.
The event benefits Meadowlark’s Parkinson’s Programs, which provide services in the Flint Hills area to improve the quality of life for all those affected by Parkinson’s disease. That includes those with the illness, caregivers, nurses, and therapists.
This year, the event hit a new record with 1,209 registered participants.
Steve Iseman, a participant with PD, traveled to Manhattan for the event all the way from Canada.
“I’ve participated in lots of cycling events,” Iseman said. “But this is unbelievable. This is so well organized, so spirited.”
Iseman said he’s fallen in love with the event and the community that comes out to support.
“Having poignant things like the half-mile walk, like fallen soldiers, those who have succumbed to the illness, that is such a warm testimonial to how close the community is,” Iseman said.
He thanks Meadowlark and Michelle Haub, the event coordinator, for organizing Speedy PD.
“It’s doing its job of raising awareness and raising funds,” Iseman said.
“The notion of having so many facilities available specifically for people with Parkinson’s is unheard of,” Iseman continued. “Parkinson’s makes people quiet and shut-ins, and you don’t see a lot from people with Parkinson’s, and it’s harming the research effort. You hear a lot about people at Meadowlark. They speak with a proud voice. These people are living their best life with Parkinson’s because of the facilities that they’ve put together.”
The final numbers on the amount of donations are still coming in. However, Meadowlark projects about $90,000 raised in support of its free services to those with Parkinson’s Disease.
Learn more about Speedy PD at www.meadowlark.org/speedy-pd.
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