Ben's Run is a great race supporting a great cause in memory of a great kid. Ben was my nephew and godson. He was a wonderful guy, who liked to laugh and was a real charmer. Ben bravely battled leukemia for many years and spent many months at Children's National Medical Center before he passed away. This race honors him and helps to raise important money to fight childhood cancers. I encourage you to support it. The course is fairly flat with a few rolling hills through Ben's old neighborhood. The race is well-organized with warm-up music and a DJ before it starts. There is also a silent auction and even an occasional appearance by Batman. There are a few other fund-raisers during the year, such as a comedy club night. All the organizers for these events are volunteers so all your money goes directly where it is needed most.

I, too, have a personal association with Ben's Run/Ben's Gift as I am proud to have been Ben's aunt. As I was unable to participate in the run this year, my status is only that of a donor, though I thoroughly enjoyed assisting (in a small way) with the first run in 2011. It was an exciting event - well organized, well attended and well received by the participants. The money raised by Ben's Run/Ben's Gift is donated directly to Children's Hospital in Washington, DC. I personally spent many hours visiting in this wonderful facility and experienced the dedication and expertise of the amazing staff who worked with my nephew. What better way to honor Ben's memory than to make a donation to, or volunteer for, Ben's Run/Ben's Gift! Children's Hospital is a very worthy recipient of our dollars and our thanks.