Wheelchair Accessibility and Medical Research: The Magnificent Mile

One thing that never ceases to amaze us at Van Products is the way that people face challenges with determination, tragedies with courage and difficulties with positivity.  Sure, there are always a few rainy days mixed in there, but it truly is inspirational to see the number of ways people who are affected by physical disabilities, whether in need of a wheelchair or the family member or friend of someone who is, choose to respond with bravery.

Raleigh’s annual Magnificent Mile [source: http://www.magmilerace.com/index.php] is one such example. It was held on September 19^th and was an enormous success! More than 1,200 people participated and raised over $50,000, breaking all previous records and generating amazing awareness and funding for the medical research that can be so expensive.

The event has been hosted annually to raise money for the Spastic Paraplegia Foundation since 2006, and is a mile-long race that offers separate competitive rounds for adults and kids as well as a recreational run for those there to show support.

The inspiration for this race comes from two families, the Witts and the Corsmeiers.  Sarah Witt is a primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) patient, and siblings Scott and Amy Corsmeier were both diagnosed with hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP). All three require wheelchair accessibility wherever they go, but they and their brave families have decided to do offer a positive reaction to their circumstances by hosting this race.

The mission behind the project is to raise awareness of Sarah, Scott and Amy’s motor neuron diseases and provide funds for the ongoing search for a cure. As an all-volunteer project, about 92 per cent of sponsor incomes and participant entry fees are donated to this end. Over the years this has amounted to over two million dollars in research grants.

The efforts of organizations like the Spastic Paraplegia foundation and the generosity of individual donors are a testament to the inspiration people find in overcoming challenges and serving a greater good. At Van Products we hope to help people overcome those by providing handicap accessible transportation and spreading the word about organizations and events such as these. Drop us a note and let us know how we can help you!