Run for PKD

Updated 3:33 PM CST, Thu, Jul 23, 2009

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We’re back again!

Run for PKD is excited to be participating in our 2nd Bank of America Chicago Marathon! In 2008 our team of 20 runners completed the marathon, raising more than $45,000! Your funds will make a difference! 85% of every dollar raised goes to patient education and research!

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is one of the world’s most common, life-threatening genetic diseases, affecting 600,000 Americans and 12.5 million children and adults worldwide. By taking part in "Run for PKD" you can help fund patient education and vital research needed to find a treatment and cure for PKD!

Meet one PKD team member, Joe Villanova.

After a 13-year break from marathons, Joe laced up his running shoes once again last fall. His inspiration to run again? The PKD Foundation's first Run for PKD team in the 2008 Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Joe's wife and several members of her family have PKD, and Joe felt compelled to run - and fundraise - in their honor.

"By joining the team, I felt inspired," he said. "To have 100 plus people coming together to support this cause ... it was a testament to the fact that there’s hope for a cure."

Joe also credits the online training program he took part in - as well as support from the PKD Foundation's Run for PKD support team - with keeping him on track.

"Being part of the team gave me motivation; it gives you a plan and a goal," Joe said. "If it’s something you’ve always wanted to do, this gets you out the door."

Learn more about Joe’s story and join in the fight! Run for PKD on Sunday, October 11, 2009 at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon! The PKD Foundation has limited registration slots available despite the closing of marathon's open registration! To register for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and Run for PKD program, you must join our "Run for PKD" team by contacting Kirsten Cooper, Run for PKD Manager, at runforpkd@pkdcure.org or 219-588-7192. To learn more about PKD and to be apart of our Run for PKD program, go to www.pkdcure.org today!