Running With Angels – A 5K for Families with Courage

Recently, the Ryan’s Lion Organization had the opportunity to be part of a unique event honoring the memories of some very special people. The “Running With Angels 5K” is an annual event founded by one very courageous and loving woman, Pam Hansen. Pam experienced the tragic loss of two infants, one born prematurely, and another stillborn. Fast forward a few years, and find Pam, who ultimately conquered her depression (and a resulting weight problem), with running. After completing her first marathon, she wrote a book, Running with Angels, and then she focused her efforts into helping others find a way to triumph over their pain as well. She organized the “Running With Angels” 5K, which is an annual event with a twofold purpose. First, it creates a unique opportunity for families who have lost a loved-one to a tragic death or illness to re-focus their despair into an event that raises funds for programs that benefit other bereaved families, and for a healthcare foundation that assists sick and struggling infants. Second, it creates an incentive program for men and women of all ages who are seeking to overcome depression, develop healthier lifestyles, or just be a support system to others who are searching for hope.

At the 5K, we met with dozens of families who were participating en masse in honor of an “angel” from their families who had died. Some were running for stillborn or premature infants, others were participating to honor the memory of a child who had been ill for many years. One family was there to honor a recently deceased police officer killed in the line of duty. Yet another young woman and an entourage of friends and family were there to remember her fiancé who had passed away unexpectedly.

There was an energy among these families that was almost palpable. You could see them standing in quiet groups prior to the start of the
race. Each group included people of all ages with matching T-shirts proclaiming “Team Tiffany” or “This one’s for Jack,” or a similar slogan. You could see the hope in their eyes and feel the unique family bond that develops between people who are hurting together, and trying to find solace. Often, entire teams of family members would cross the finish line together—a visible show of solidarity and support.

And then there were the photos. It was heartwarming to watch as children, mothers, uncles, and grandmothers each completed the race, then gathered in quiet corners near the finish line to capture a permanent memory of the day. There were hugs, there were tears, and most importantly, there were smiles as each family found a way to turn a simple race into another way to ensure bright and happy memories of someone who mattered to them very much—even if that little someone only lived for a few hours.

This was an event where we were able to see some of our Lion recipients in action—looking for ways to pass on their courage, hope, love, and
empathy to one another. Thanks, Pam and the “Running With Angels” team for letting us be part of the event.