Comment
Print
Angie Sanford and others will again run with a purpose this October when Run Against Addiction again offers a race that’s more than just a running event, but one that is designed to bring awareness to the problem of drug addiction and the power in overcoming it. Information about the event will be provided during “The Big Reveal” on Feb. 10 at 6pm at Spindale House.
“I overlooked it (the issue of addiction) until it hit my door,” Sanford, who founded Run Against Addiction, said. At age 22, Sanford’s daughter, Ayla, became addicted to methamphetamine. Overnight Ayla went from being a devoted daughter and mother to being withdrawn and frail. Sanford prayed and fought for her daughter, learning to navigate waters uncharted for her.
It was Sanford’s journey through fighting for Ayla that Run Against Addiction was born. All of the events hosted by Run Against Addiction have a purpose of changing a life, and providing community resources.
“Every event we have education, health care, law enforcement, civic and youth organizations - anything positive that we can bring out,” Sanford said.
“We want this community to be whole, healthy and educated.”
Sanford also makes herself available to help others deal with their loved ones addiction.
“No one knows the hell a family goes through with someone who is addicted,” she said. “I will run the roads with family members if that is what they need. I know drug dealers, it’s sad to say, and I pray them out of a job. I want them to recover, too.”
Run Against Addiction hosted its first race, a 5K, in May 2014. In October “Field of Dreams” was held at Forest City Housing Authority and included a free shopping spree, free haircuts, games and food.
A half marathon is planned for October, and will be the first to be held in Rutherford County. A portion of the proceeds from it will benefit the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office GREAT Program. A portion will also benefit the House of Refuge, which will provide support for families in the community affected by addiction, with a long-term vision to house addicts and become an alternative to outpatient drug and rehabilitation treatment. It is also Sanford’s desire that House of Refuge be a hands-on training facility to prepare those who have completed treatment for careers and trade jobs within the community.
“If we all pull together in Rutherford County, we can change this community,” she said.
Run Against Addiction’s “The Big Reveal” will be held Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 6-8pm at Spindale House. A one-day only registration discount of $20 will be given to all runners who attend the reveal and register for the half marathon at this event.
