OWASSO — Community members and organizations gathered for Colby Cures One Mile Fun Run, 5K course and CrossFit Challenge Nov. 10 at Stone Canyon Elementary in Owasso. Race proceeds were used to assist Angelman Syndrome research and help children who suffer from the illness.
Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a genetic-based neurologic disorder that occurs in about one in 15,000 births. Side effects include developmental cognitive with motor delay, lack of speech and seizures.
The Colby Cures 5K run was organized in honor of Colby Goldstein who was born with AS in 2007.
“He certainly had his share of challenges,” said mother Arami Goldstein. “But even without the benefit of language he taught us that limitations are for those who believe in them and that judgement is reserved for those who judge.”
Goldstein said his robust enjoyment of a full and vibrant life helped him to walk by the age of three and a half and later pedaling a two wheeler bike with training wheels. He learned to express some of his needs with sign language, began potty training and was a whiz at navigating to his favorite sites on his iPad.
“At the age of four, an accident took Colby,” said Goldstein “We are confident he would have changed the face of Angelman Syndrome.
This year, 300 participants raised nearly $20,000 for the cure.
“The raised funds totaled way more than expected,” she said. “We are very grateful for all of the support we received from area businesses.”
Prizes for the 5K run went to the top three male and female finishers in the standard age groups. Race fees included a T-shirt, post-race snack and drink.
While working to become a non-profit organization, Colby Cures plans to present the event to the public again next year.
Currently, another angel boy is in the special needs program at Stone Canyon Elementary.
Goldstein said the goal is to begin raising money for him as soon as possible.
Funds directly assist speech, occupational and physical therapies, specialized therapeutic equipment as well as financial assistance scholarships to attend the community-building AS conferences.
“The cost of these therapies and medical care can sometimes be a staggering burden for families, especially single parent families,” she said.
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