| "A Brother's Love" Memorial Run |
The Andy Cubbler/C.O.P.S.: "A Brother's Love" Memorial Run was born from my book entitled "A Brother's Love: A Memoir" which details my life growing up with my older
brother Andy. Andy was learning disabled and suffered from a severe stuttering problem. Unfortunately for all of us who knew him, Andy died in an automobile accident in
1989. He was the most pure, honest and loving person that I have ever or will ever know. His death was a tragedy for us all.
The proceeds from the book are donated to two scholarship funds I established in Andy's name that benefit children with physical and learning disabilities. In 2007, I
realized that the book sales alone would not keep the scholarships alive. I set out to find a way to raise money and awareness for Andy's funds. I also wanted to raise
money for a national charity and I decided to choose C.O.P.S. (Concern's of Police Survivor's) mainly due to my career choice and my desire to help the families of the
fallen officer's who paid the ultimate sacrifice. If my family ever had to deal with my death in the line of duty, I would hope that someone would be willing to "pay it
forward" and organize a fund raising effort to help my family.
What began as a crazy idea became a reality. In May, 2008 - I set out on a physical, emotional and spiritual journey across New Jersey. I ran solo across the state in 72
hrs - 78.8 miles in 72 hrs! I achieved my goal of raising awareness and funds by raising almost $20,000. It was an amazing journey! I learned more about myself in those
three days than I did in the past 20 years. The level of pain and exhaustion were so intense, but I was able to continue on.
However, the physical toll the run took on my body ensured that it would be a one time event. I decided that every year hereafter, I would host a 5k run/1 mile fun walk in
Andy's honor to continue to raise money and awareness. This year, on May 17th 2009 at 9 a.m., I will host the 2nd Annual Andy Cubbler/C.O.P.S.: "A Brother's Love" Memorial
Run in Collegeville, PA. All proceeds from the run go directly into Andy's scholarship funds and C.O.P.S. initiatives.
Andy's legacy can be found not only in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, but also in the hearts of the children who benefit from his scholarships. Andy knew the
struggles that come with living with a disability. It was fitting that his legacy be used to help those who struggle just as he did. Please join me in honoring my
brother, Andy by signing up to run in his race. I promise you that it will be an amazing journey!
Race day registration is from 7:30-8:30 am. Please go to www.active.com to register online or go to www.abrothersloverun.org for more information.
|
The
2nd Annual Andy Cubbler/C.O.P.S.
“A Brother’s Love”
Memorial Run
5k run/1 mi. fun walk
Ursinus College/Collegeville, PA
May 17th, 2009 at 9 a.m.
