26th Annual Outrun Lupus Virtual 5K | Saturday May 30, 2020
This year's virtual run/walk celebrates Lupus Awareness Month—you can participate from anywhere for a full 5K or for your distance of choice, then just log your time and distance to the Outrun Lupus Virtual 5K website where results will be tallied after the event ends on May 30. Since we can't run/walk together for the foreseeable future, we can at least share our 5K experiences online and raise critical awareness about lupus amid this COVID-19 health pandemic.
Join us for the 5K and for a series of virtual runs/walks throughout the summer—help us Outrun Lupus together in 2020! Focused on the needs of lupus patients and families in the Northern California region, the Foundation provides innovative programs that reach patients here and beyond our borders. The Outrun Lupus 5K, now in its 26th year, benefits the Lupus Foundation of Northern California's mission to improve lives impacted by lupus. Thank you for your participation and support! |
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Meet our 2020 Honoree, Francis Nguyen
Francis was 11 years old when he was diagnosed with (SLE) systemic lupus erythematosus in 2017. Before his diagnosis he was an active, friendly, confident boy who would only wear shorts. Within a few short months, everything changed. The first day back to the new school year, no one seemed to recognize him physically with long pants, long-sleeve shirts, a brim hat and a completely different person. Francis had difficulty regaining confidence and barely talked to anyone. He felt lonely and isolated. During this difficult time he and his family found support from the Lupus Foundation of Northern California. He was welcomed into the community with open arms and hearts. He found that he was not alone in this fight. Francis gradually regained confidence and started socializing and engaging again. Francis realized that his life would not be normal like the other kids and he also wanted to help other young lupus patients. He and his parents started the Lupus Youth Support Group. This group is open to kids from 6-17 and meets every month to share information about the Lupus experience, diagnosis, treatment and to support each other during the difficult time. Francis strongly believes one day there will be a cure for Lupus just as there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. He counts on everyone who would join him in this Outrun Lupus Virtual 5K and make a difference. Francis is forever grateful for the love, support, and prayers from his family, friends and community. You can read more of Francis' story here and be sure to join Team Francis! |
Virtual 5K Info
SCHEDULE - SATURDAY, May 30 7:15 AM - Opening Announcements: Rob Mayeda-NBC 7:20 AM - Welcome: Lon Saavedra, Executive Director 7:25 AM - Honoree Introduction: Lon Saavedra & Francis Nguyen 7:30 AM - Welcome & Thank You Words: Doug Carlen, Board Chair 7:35 AM - National Anthem: Thu Vu 7:40 AM - Mascot Intro: Lon Saavedra & Leslie Watts 7:45 AM - Warm Up: Lucas Dunham - Google Fitness Instructor 7:55 AM - Grand Marshal Ribbon Cutting: Rob Mayeda & Jessica Garcia Kohl 8:00 AM - 5K Official Start: everyone break and go run/walk. 11:00 AM - 5K Official End BREAK 7:00 PM - Awards & Results Announcement: Online WEATHER Since we are all running/walking from different locations we'll all have different weather! See weather forecasts where you are at wunderground.com Please dress appropriately, and always wear sunscreen. LATE REGISTRATION Did your friend or family member forget to register, but would like to participate? No worries, registrants can still sign up right up until 6:00 AM on Saturday May 30. Those who register after 5/15 will receive their bib as part of their participation packet (which includes medals, fundraising prizes earned, and certificates for finishing). Be sure to register all your friends and family online or on-site! |