Late to the Race, But Still Contending!

Our summer just got a little more interesting!

We are now participating in The LuMind Foundation's (previously known as Down Syndrome Research and Treatment Foundation) inaugural Race for Research - Accelerating Down Syndrome Cognition Research.

What exactly is the Race for Research? It is a 3 day road rally raising funds for Down syndrome research. Teams of 2 (a driver: Joe; and a navigator: moi) will be on a scavenger hunt starting at the Richard Petty Museum and finishing at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte.

Wondering what the NASCAR connection is? David Ragan, a 3rd generation NASCAR driver, has a brother who has Down syndrome. David and his wife are the honorary co-chairs for this event.

(Side note - We will be getting our fill of NASCAR themed events this summer as Victory Junction was built in honor of Richard Petty's grandson Adam. We just spent a family weekend at VJ and my kids will each spend some time there this summer.)

Kayla and Lucas, but Kayla in particular, enjoy staying at hotels (Kayla is frequently heard saying, "I want to go back to the hotel! I want to go to hotel pool!" so I think they are both going to enjoy this whirlwind trip through NASCAR history and meeting some drivers.

I was aware of the Race For Research a few months ago, but finally just registered us as a team. We debated whether or not to participate because of the other busy things we have going on this summer (which includes driving to and from VJ which is in Randleman, NC two times (4 hrs each way!), and driving to IN for the NDSC Convention). But this scavenger hunt will have 'pit stops' along the way engaging the local communities and raising awareness; and it's in the state next to us, so we finally figured - why not? Let's go for it!

So we are late to the (fundraising) race, but still participating and looking forward to a fun time! If you would like to contribute to Team Blueberry Eyes it is much appreciated!