Running for OI ChildrenFrank Denelle
Over the last years, running has become an integral part of my life. I have discovered that for me, running means life. And I love life. Like life, running can be demanding and painful … but like life, running offers fulfilment and happiness. OI children, unfortunately, can’t enjoy the fulfilment and happiness of running.
OI (Osteogenesis Imperfect) is a genetic condition which affects the bones and soft tissue. People with OI have extremely fragile bones and are dealing with a lot of pain, fatigue and other symptoms. OI children live in a protected environment and can't participate to activities like running, facing isolation besides all the physical pain.
There is currently no cure for OI. Treatment is aimed at increasing overall bone strength to prevent fractures and maintain mobility. Much research is needed and significant funding is urgently required for that purpose.
As a runner, I dearly wish to help prevent OI and give OI children better lives. I will run the “Dam to Dam” race on 22 September to raise funds and help the Care4BrittleBones Foundation conduct research on OI. We need your support for this, and we welcome any contributions, as small as they may be.
With all our thanks in advance,