thankful#123: medical fund run

I ran in the Drew & Michelle Medical Fund Run 10k this morning - what an amazing fundraiser. Drew and Michelle are a local couple that were vacationing in Mexico when they were involved in a hit and run accident leaving them both in critical condition. Drew works for the sheriff's department and has decent insurance for the both of them, but apparently his coverage ends soon and there is still a long road ahead of them. I don't know the specifics of their injuries, other than Drew had damage to his brain and lost one of his legs and Michelle also has to relearn how to walk. Drew just started speaking again slowly about a month ago and does occupational and physical therapy for 3 hours each day. Michelle was hoping to make an appearance at the race today, but came down with a sudden illness this week caused by scar tissue in her abdomen from the accident. Drew, however, was there and it was incredible. He participated in his wheel chair in the 5k with a group of what I'm guessing were his family and close friends. When they got within about 20 or 30 feet of the finish line, Drew stood from his wheel chair, grabbed tight onto a walker, and with the support of the family and friends that were with him he walked to and across the finish line. The entire crowd gathered along the sidelines cheering him on. It was apparent by the look on his face that it was quite a feat for him and that it was taking everything he had to do it, but you could also sense that he was humbled by the outpouring of support. It was really an emotional moment. I was getting choked up and I had never even met him and I saw the same sentiment on many of the faces of the people there. It was yet another example of the amazing way that people band together to show support when hard times hit. I am so thankful that I was able to be a part of this event today. They are an inspiring couple.