Loving Naomi Kathleen: Beating Batten 5K a huge success

Saturday was the big day! The Beating Batten 5K took place in Staunton, VA and raised over $5,000 dollars for the Batten's Disease Support and Research Association. The race culminated months of hard work by the organizers, principly Ms. Lena Fairless - the Naomi Kathleen Caughey Foundation Secretary. She and her helpers, including her husband, Dave Rylak and father - in - law Al Rylak as well as many other wonderful volunteers were up in the predawn hours getting the course set up at Gypsy Hill Park. In addition to the race itself there was a silent auction and Tastefully Simple table as well! We also received donations online and through a jewelry sale.

Naomi and her dad and both sets of grandparents made their way down on Friday. Naomi's mother was not allowed to go because she was 36 weeks pregnant which was a big disappointment, but also very exciting for our family. We had a lovely dinner that night and were joined by one of Rob's good friends from college, Beth, and her husband Matt, who came down all the way from Maine.

The day of the race started early, while it was dark. As the sun came up the weather warmed up and a number of people from all periods of our lives were present. There were family, friends from college, residency, Anne's school, The Covenent School, when she lived in Virginia and many other new friends who came in support. It was amazing to see everyone and it is just unbelievable the number of people that Naomi has touched.

After I read a brief statement of thanks that Anne wrote, Naomi led off the race in her stroller and was pushed the entire 5K by her grandparents (she needed shows to watch to make it). The race went off without a hitch as did the silent auction. It was really a perfect day. Anne even got to participate using Facetime on Al's IPAD! Afterwards Naomi took (begrudging) pictures with her fans.

Thanks to everyone who participated