Speed for Need is all about connecting people. It works because it connects people and communities that are, otherwise, not connected. That connection instantly takes us out of our comfort zone and taps into our curiosity in getting to know others and helps to encourage awareness and inclusion. Run for Holland was the poster child for making that happen on June 2nd. A small community in Spruce Pine rolled out in droves to support and celebrate Holland, Meagan, Reggie, and Neal. F3 & FiA pax from Gastonia, Huntersville, Davidson, and all around the Spruce Pine area converged on F3 Keystone to race with four inspiring track commanders. The below excerpt from one of our F3 Davidson pax describes the experience of pushing on behalf of Speed for Need:
Speaking of running, find the opportunity to push one of the Speed for Need chairs, even the non-runners should give this some serious thought. I did it for the first time this past Sat. at Run for Holland in Spruce Pine. Let me start out by saying this was way outside my comfort zone…way outside. There aren’t too many situations where I am uncomfortable but being in close contact with developmentally challenged people is definitely one of them. That quickly disappeared the moment I met the Track Commander and her family. Meagan cannot communicate verbally but the squeals of excitement she got from riding in the SFN chair was absolutely amazing. Her enthusiasm quickly flattened out the hills we ran and made the race one of the most exciting things I’ve done this year. When we crossed the finish line, I needed a few minutes alone so I could compose myself before I could speak with anyone, the feeling was overwhelming and a little tough to describe.
– F3 Duvall
Congratulations Holland, Meagan, Reggie, and Neal on finishing your race! Here is a little taste of the Run for Holland experience: