MANALAPAN – JAR of Hope, an organization that seeks to help boys afflicted with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), will hold a 5K run/walk fundraiser on June 26 at the Manalapan Recreation Center, Route 522 at Taylors Mills Road.
Runners will begin at 8 a.m. and walkers will begin at 9 a.m. Registration is $25 for adults and $15 for children. Those who wish to participate may register online at www.jarofhope.org or at the recreation center on the day of the event from 7-7:45 a.m.
The fundraiser will spread awareness of DMD and raise funds for research and treatment, according to a press release.
DMD is a form of muscular dystrophy that causes muscles to deteriorate and break down. Individuals with the disease lack the protein needed to protect and build muscle fibers, which leads to continuous muscle degeneration and premature death. Most individuals who suffer from DMD are male children, according to the press release.
JAR of Hope is named after James Anthony “Jamesy” Raffone, who was diagnosed with DMD in 2013 when he was 7. The organization was founded by Jamesy’s father, Jim, with the intention of raising money to pursue a cure.
After the walk and run, refreshments will be served to participants and entertainment and activities will be provided. Participants will receive a complementary T-shirt.