Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation

On Valentine's Day, 30 runners lined up at the start line of the Austin Half Marathon to raise awareness and money for myotonic dystrophy research. Their biggest cheerleader was 5 year old Jack Vassallo Fitzpatrick and the team's biggest fan was the MDF. After all, these folks were "Running For Jack" and in doing so, they raised $75,000 for the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation's research programs.

Led by Jack's grandmother Mollie McKool, and his parents, John Fitzpatrick, an MDF Board Member, and Kristen Vassallo, the family set out with a simple goal - to appeal for help and support for research into a cure for myotonic dystrophy, a condition affecting Jack and thousands of people world-wide.

How did they do it? First, they picked a fun event that their family could rally around; in this case it was the 2010 Austin Half Marathon. Then, they reached out to family, friends and business associates, shared Jack's story and simply asked people if they would contribute. They did and then they reached out to their family, friends and business associates and nearly 300 donations later, they far exceeded their original goal of raising $10,000. And all along the way, they had fun! Wearing matching t-shirts, hats and carrying signs, every runner and spectator along the course knew this team was running for Jack and myotonic dystrophy research. See more photos from the event.

So to the McKool, Fitzpatrick and Vassallo families and the runners and donors along the way, a hearty thank you from the MDF. This event shows what one family can do to make a difference. Now, we ask you one simple question - what can you do to improve the lives of people living with myotonic dystrophy?