Rare Genetic Disorder in 10-month old Ryleigh Shenal Inspires Race
October 11, 2011
5K, 1 Mile Run/Walk to Benefit SC Birth Defects Foundation
Greenwood Genetic Center – October 15, 2011 – There are nine days left until the 1st annual Race the Helix 5K, 1 Mile Run/Walk to benefit the SC Birth Defects Foundation. The event will take place on Saturday, October 15th at the Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC) located at 106 Gregor Mendel Circle in Greenwood, SC and will be hosted by the Greenwood Endurance Team.
Race the Helix is inspired by the family of 10-month old Ryleigh Shenal. Diagnosed with a rare chromosome deletion, Ryleigh is one of more than 25,000 patients who receive care through GGC’s state-of-the-art clinical, diagnostic and treatment programs each year. Proceeds from Race the Helix will benefit the SC Birth Defects Foundation, the fundraising arm of GGC.
Ryleigh’s mother, Jodi Shenal, notes “The GGC has had an immeasurable impact on Ryleigh’s progress and development since discovering her disorder when she was 9 weeks old. On October 15th, Ryleigh will celebrate her 11-month birthday and Race the Helix will take the GGC one step closer in the search for cures, treatments and preventive measures for genetic disorders. Our hope is that you join us.”
Tours of the Greenwood Genetic Center and other family-oriented activities will also be available before and after the race. McDonald’s breakfast will also be provided to all race participants.
Participants may register up until 7:30 a.m. on the day of the race. Entry fees are: $25 for the 5K and $20 for the 1 Mile Run/Walk. The race will begin at 8 a.m. Registration forms are available online at www.ggc.org, and checks should be made out to Greenwood Endurance Team (GET). For more information on the race or Ryleigh’s incredible journey, please contact Stephen Shenal at (864) 941-6091.
About Greenwood Genetic Center
The Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC), founded in 1974, is a nonprofit organization advancing the field of medical genetics and caring for families impacted by genetic disease and birth defects. At its home campus in Greenwood, South Carolina, a talented team of physicians and scientists provides clinical genetic services, diagnostic laboratory testing, educational programs and resources, and research in the field of medical genetics. GGC’s faculty and staff are committed to the goal of developing preventive and curative therapies for the individuals and families they serve. GGC extends its reach as a resource to all residents of South Carolina with satellite offices in Charleston, Columbia, Florence and Greenville. For more information about GGC please visit www.ggc.org.
