Hi. Thank you for supporting Chris on his journey! My name is Ashley and I created this cause for my Uncle Chris. Before I explain why, let me share his story. Earlier this year, Chris got in a life-threatening accident on his electric bicycle. He was ejected off the bike, unable to more or yell for help. He broke multiple ribs, shattered parts of his spine, and his C5 vertibre. Unfortunately, where he landed, passerbyers were unable to see or hear him. It was hours later, in the middle of the night, when someone found him. By the time medivac arrived, he had also developed pneumonia. Medical Staff at RI Hospital performed 2 very long, crucial surgeries to repair his spine over the next 24 hours. His medical team was able to save his life, however he is paralyzed from the neck down. He is now at Spaulding Rehabilitation Center in Boston working on regaining movement. With their help, although weak, he can now lift his head, move his shoulders, and can feel when people hold his hand. Before the accident, he was a runner. We would talk about our running journey's, and he'd say things like, "I was tired today so I only ran 17 miles this morning." Yes, you read that right, ONLY 17 miles! He loved running! He has run multiple halfs, and full marathons, and loved every one of them! For my Senior Project, on May 5th 2019, I ran the Providence half marathon, and rather than just cheering me on, he decided to run all 13.1 miles by my side. This upcoming Providence Marathon is being held on May 5th 2024, EXACTLY 5 years since he mentally pushed me! I have decided to run the Full Marathon for Chris, pushing his wheelchair all 26.2 miles, so he can feel the race day energy that any runner would understand. When I told him my plan to push him in May, he started tearing up and thanking me. Training has begun, and I already have multiple other runners training to run with Chris as well! While we are running the marathon to show our support, there is still so much support needed. This LFEBridge is to purchase a special racing wheelchair so he can participate in the marathon. Thank you for your help! If you would like to cheer on Chris on the sideline of Race day, we will be making shirts for a $30 donation. ***Update: He is now home with his family. They have a new room set up on the first floor for him.***
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