San Diego Matchmaker 5K Run/Walk

> To View Photos of the San Diego Matchmaker 5K Click Here <

This April the Icla da Silva Foundation hosted its second annual San Diego Matchmaker 5K Run/Walk. Over 130 participants enjoyed the perfect weather and picturesque palm tree-lined route with beautiful views at Tidelands Park overlooking the Coronado Bridge and downtown San Diego.  Runners and walkers alike flexed their muscles during a pre-race stretch yoga session, got groovy to the music, and cooled down with complimentary massage therapy.

According to event organizer Danielle Stewart, “The event was amazing!  Just in comparison to last year, we definitely grew.”  Twice as many participants attended the event this year and helped raise over $5,000.00 towards the Icla da Silva Foundation programs.

Danielle is the Community Engagement Representative for the Icla da Silva Foundation in the San Diego area. She talks to schools, businesses and corporations to recruit would-be potential marrow donors and educate people about the process of marrow donation.  Danielle’s work with the community has had a dramatic impact on the 5K, saying of her fellow runners, “They were all people I have spoken with personally; I could refer to every single participant by their name. Last year, we were still so new to San Diego. That time to get out into the community was critical in the success of our event.“ The family friendly event brought together participants from all walks of life – even the littlest ones went rolling by in their strollers!

It is estimated that every three minutes someone is diagnosed with a blood cancer like leukemia.  The Matchmaker 5K Run/Walk is a great way to raise awareness, educate, build a sense of community, and have some fun in the sun.  Many thanks to Danielle and the caring San Diego community for their tireless enthusiasm and devotion to giving hope to those in need of a marrow transplant.

> To View Photos of the San Diego Matchmaker 5K Click Here <