Kansas City Rallies Behind Marathon Runner Fighting Alzheimer’s
On a lovely Saturday morning in Kansas City, the air is filled with excitement and anticipation for the Garmin Kansas City Marathon. Among the crowd of runners is Jason Boschan, a remarkable man whose mission extends far beyond just crossing the finish line. He’s conquering not just the city, but also the hearts of many with his inspiring journey to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s and dementia research.
A Personal Mission
Jason has embarked on a monumental journey, planning to run marathons in all 50 U.S. states. But this isn’t just an athletic pursuit; it’s a heartfelt tribute to his grandfather, whom he lovingly calls “papa.” Jason’s goal is to promote critical research in Alzheimer’s, a disease that affects nearly 7 million people in the U.S. today, with projections suggesting that this number could swell to 13 million by 2050.
Raising Funds and Awareness
His non-profit organization, Run4Papa, has partnered with Northwestern University to support Alzheimer’s and dementia research. So far, the organization has impressively raised 88% of its $400,000 fundraising goal. What’s truly admirable is that Jason emphasizes that “100% of every dollar we raise goes to research.” He covers his own travel and accommodation costs, dedicating his time and energy to make a difference.
Why It Matters
Understanding the stakes is crucial. Jason highlights, “My grandpa went from being pretty able-bodied to trapped in his own head,” sharing the heart-wrenching experience of watching his grandfather transition from an active doctor to someone who struggled to remember everyday life. The urgency of his mission is underscored by alarming statistics; Alzheimer’s was the fifth leading cause of death among individuals aged 55 and older in 2021, and the financial burden of dementia care is anticipated to escalate to nearly $1 trillion by 2050.
Creating a Positive Vibe
As Jason gears up for his run, he stands out in a vibrant custom shirt tailored specifically for Kansas City. His aim? To foster connection and encourage spectators and fellow runners to ask questions about his cause. “I might not be leading the pack,” he explains, “but if I can bring a smile or a laugh to someone’s day, it adds to the positive vibe I’m hoping to create throughout the race.”
A Day to Remember
The Garmin Kansas City Marathon kicks off at 7 a.m. on Saturday, promising to be a beautiful day filled with unity, support, and inspiration. For the community, this marathon is not just about the glory of winning; it’s a chance to rally together, support a noble cause, and honor families affected by Alzheimer’s.
Get Involved
As you cheer on Jason and the thousands of runners participating, remember that every bit counts. If you’re interested in supporting the fight against Alzheimer’s, consider looking into how you can contribute to Run4Papa. Together, we can help shine a light on this important issue and support valuable research aimed at giving families more time with their loved ones.
So lace up those shoes, gather your friends and family, and head out to support a cause that touches us all. Let’s make strides towards a healthier future and cherish the moments we have with our loved ones!
