Runners 4 Others Operation Smile -- Condura Run

For many of us, running is a personal mission -- whether for fitness or for the joy of achieving new goals and levels or just for the sheer joy of running. Some of us use running to espouse personal advocacies -- like what Bald Runner does, seeking contributions of old sneakers and singlets for less fortunate but equally dedicated runners. This time, I would like to invite everyone to help me and a friend of mine with another mission -- to help children who were born with and are suffering from a cleft deformity.

I myself am looking forward to participating in the Condura Run on March 22. I'm sure many of you have also registered and are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to run a 21K over the Skyway. It will be my first -- and I'm dreading the experience already. (he! he!)

My friend, Jajo Quintos, have teamed up with a small group of running enthusiasts called Runners for Others. They are actively supporting the Condura Run in partnership with Operation Smile Philippines.

I'm stunned to learn that every year, one out of 500 Filipino children are born with a cleft deformity. These children go around with a heavy emotional burden brought about by this physical handicap. Fortunately, they can be helped. During my years with the Rotary movement, I've witnessed the healing power of operations to fix cleft deformities -- it's a fantastic feeling to see these kids, who used to cower in fright from shame and redicule, to finally smile, knowing they have a brighter future ahead because of the operation. The results are truly life altering to the affected kids.

Through Operation Smile, kids with cleft deformity are operated on by a team of volunteer Plastic Surgeons. Cost of related medicine and supplies are covered by Operation Smile donations. It takes P12,000 to operate on one child. The Plastic Surgeons waive their fees.

You have a chance to help these children -- When you register, or even if you have already registered, donate P100 at any of the Condura Run registration centers for Runners for Others (R4O) Operation Smile. In return, you will be given a specially designed race bib that you can pin at the back of your singlet on race day. This will be a separate one from your official race bib.

P100 is not a lot to many of us -- but it will contribute a lot to getting a child to smile again. What a great feeling -- running your personal challenge, conquering it and help a child learn to smile again -- R4O Operation Smile -- Let's all support this worthy endeavor now!! Not only will it show you run, it will show you run for others!