Running To Combat Heart Disease

Hi Everyone,

My name is Percell Dugger and I'm a running coach. I set a goal to run from Los Angeles to New York City, to empower communities across the country to fall in love with running. Since setting this goal, my team has encountered systemic barriers in this difficult climate. So, instead of relying exclusively on brand support, we're turning to the community to help raise money so this national campaign can go from an idea to a reality.

Below is the story of We Do This: The Runner's Homecoming

When presenting our 3,500-mile run from Los Angeles to New York City to potential sponsors, the biggest challenge we've faced is the misconception that it’s been done before—and therefore isn’t worth their attention or investment.

But here’s the truth: history proves that being first doesn’t guarantee success or impact. Blockbuster came before Netflix. Xerox before Apple. The pioneers might blaze the trail, but it’s those who reimagine the journey who inspire change.

Some might point to elite runners or stories about ultramarathoners like Paul Johnson. But those stories, while impressive, often miss the heart of what resonates with people. Running isn’t just about records; it’s about the powerful stories that highlight the intersection of running and culture.

That’s where We Do This: The Runner's Homecoming comes in.

This isn’t a trek through the heartland; it’s a journey through the beating hearts of diverse cities, kicking off in June 2025 from Los Angeles and culminating in late October during the week of the NYC Marathon.

But this run isn’t only about community and culture—it’s about empowering health in local communities.

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. It disproportionately affects Black and Brown communities. Many of these deaths are preventable, but barriers—like lack of access to healthcare, healthy food, and fitness resources—continue to plague Americans. Running is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, yet so many feel like running isn't enjoyable.

That’s why this run is bigger than breaking records. It’s an opportunity to center and celebrate the universal truths and values of Americans, through the lens of running, whilst inspiring communities to advocate for their personal health and happiness.

Where the Funding Goes

Every donation and sponsorship directly supports:

Operational Costs: Travel expenses, lodging, food, and support crew logistics to ensure a safe and successful journey for my team of 5 people.

❤️ Health & Wellness Initiatives: Producing community events in each major city stop, providing free health & wellness workshops, resources, and education on preventing heart disease. We'll need funding for sound/av, permits, and signage etc.

Storytelling & Content Creation: High-quality, engaging content that captures the essence of the journey, ensuring the message reaches as many people as possible. This requires a team of two directors of photography, as well as hardware for their filming, editing, and file storage.

Community Partnerships: Supporting grassroots organizations that are already doing the work to improve health equity and access to fitness in Black and Brown communities. I will be donating funds to local non-profit organizations, run clubs, elementary schools, and college students to support their mission and lived experiences.

This run is a celebration of running as a catalyst for community health and happiness. This is more than a physical feat. It’s an invitation to show up as you are and join a movement that celebrates the power of community and the transformative spirit of running.

3,500 miles. Countless stories. One purpose: to inspire like never before. Are you ready to be part of something bigger?

➡️ Donate today to help make this journey possible. Every dollar fuels the mission, ensuring that every step, every story, and every city stop leaves a lasting impact.

~Coach Percell Dugger