Columbia Runs 4 Rare!

Rare diseases affect ~30 million Americans, or roughly one in 10 people. Many of these conditions are not only very difficult to diagnose, but even more challenging to treat. Of the 7,000 known rare diseases, only 5% currently have FDA-approved therapies. Thus, rare diseases are a critical public health issue that require more awareness, support, and research funding.

We are a group of Columbia students ‘running for rare diseases.’

On September 24th, two of us (Dennis and Simon) ran the New Yorker Half Marathon by Riverside Park. Two weeks leading up to the race, we were raising money for organizations that support those affected by rare diseases and are doing so in ridiculous fashion - that is, dressed as zebras.

The zebra is the official symbol of rare diseases in America due to its unique striped pattern. In fact, in medical training, new physicians are often taught “When you hear hooves, think horses” (common conditions) and “not zebras” (rare diseases).

Post-race fun fact: Dennis ended up winning his age division (20-24 y/o). Maybe zebra-stripped spandex actually confers a competitive advantage?

The two non-profit organizations we have chosen to support are: the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and Next Step Fund, Inc. NORD is the leading patient advocacy organization dedicated to those with rare disorders and their families. Next Step is a MA-based non-profit that specifically empowers young people living with serious illnesses (like sickle cell disease) as they transition to adulthood.

Our goal was to raise $1000. This will be split evenly between the two non-profits mentioned above.

Thank you so much for considering our cause. Whether or not you donate, we hope you will keep rare diseases (and the need for more awareness, support, and research) in mind moving forward!

- Run4Rare team (Dennis, Simon, Vedhas, Rohin, Theo, Esin, James)

Disclaimer: Since Gofundme can only transfer funds to one bank account for a given fundraiser, donations will be first transferred to a personal bank account prior to being transferred via check to the two aforementioned non-profits.