JOIN THE BEST RUNNING BUDDY YOU’LL EVER HAVE FOR THE RUN ABOUT LIFE!

Running Buddies is a program that pairs a registered runner or walker with a patient from the Mercy Cancer Center in Ardmore. You and your running buddy will become friends and through email, will serve as inspiration for each other during a time when you both could use a little encouragement. Whether you are struggling through the grueling preparation for the 26.2 miles down Hwy 77, or are a walker nervous about taking part in your first running event, you will look to your patient as motivation to keep working. And, the camaraderie you develop with your running buddy will give you firsthand opportunity to encourage your buddy through his or her “marathon” of cancer treatments and honor their strength and courage.

Through you as a running buddy, the patient will have the chance to be a part of the A2A! They will learn firsthand about your preparation for the race that is held to benefit the cancer center that has suddenly become such a large part of their life. As they encourage you through your training and struggles, they are taken outside of a life now revolving around treatments and test results. The patient’s new running buddy will be a distraction from their illness and a cause for optimism.

Each runner will have the chance to meet your running buddy in person at the A2A Pasta Dinner the night before the race. Specially designated tables will allow you to “carbo-load” together and, during the program you and your buddy will be introduced as a part of this unique and uplifting program. If health permits, on race day your buddy will be at Noble Stadium waiting to personally cheer their running buddy across the finish line.

As a participant in the A2A Running Buddy program, you will also receive a unique medal created just for this program. These medals will be given to you to present to your Running Buddy either at the pasta dinner or after you cross the finish line at the A2A. For the patient, the special medal will be a tangible symbol of their link to the A2A and of the dedication and support of their newfound friend – their running buddy.

Thanks again from the A2A Race for Mercy Running Buddies!