Former LLUCH Patient and Amputee to Participate in the Family Fitness Fun 5k Run/Walk & Expo

The Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild is hosting the inaugural Family Fitness Fun 5K Run/Walk & Expo on Sunday, May 3 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Burrage Mansion, 1205 W. Crescent Ave. Check-in for the 5k begins at 7 a.m. “Fitness can be fun for the whole family, and that’s what we’re trying to promote with this event,” said Dixie Watkins, president of the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild. “We really want to encourage families to get off the couch and get active!” Former LLUCH patient and amputee, Adrian Grajeda, 11, of Palm Desert will be on his mark for the 5k. In October 2013, Adrian was injured by a car that drove into a fence in the schoolyard where he was playing. Only 10 years old at the time, he was originally taken to a local hospital in Palm Desert, but was later transferred to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital for specialized care. His injuries led to the partial amputation of his right leg. Now wearing a prosthetic, Adrian is able to be as mobile as any other 11-year-old, with an exceptional interest and talent in soccer. Adrian is just one patient touched by the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild, which has been raising funds and awareness for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) since its inception in 1999. The Loma Linda Guild has raised over $1.4 million over the last 16 years, including the recent $250,000 gift toward Vision 2020 and the new Children's hospital tower during the 22nd annual Foundation Gala last month. “Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital does a great job taking care of sick and injured kids,” Watkins continued, “but we would much rather they stay well. Getting active and spending time with family is a very important part of achieving that goal.” In addition to the 5K run/walk through the streets of Redlands, there will be a myriad of things for kids and parents to do, including an adventure course where kids will be guided through activity stations like golf, tennis, hula hooping and crafting. One of the most innovative activities of the day will be the bicycle smoothie machine. “You put the smoothie ingredients in the mixing chamber, then climb aboard the bicycle and pedal away,” Watkins explained. “When you’re finished exercising, you enjoy a delicious smoothie!” More than 25 exhibitors will hosts booths including Jazzercise and Karate for Kids, My Gym, Fox Dance Studio and Curves, as well as community organizations like Safe Kids and YMCA. Exhibitors will offer free giveaway items and opportunity drawings will also be held. Redlands Fire Department will bring a large hook-and-ladder fire truck for the kids to climb on, and Redlands Police Department will provide free fingerprinting for kids. The cost of the event starts at $10 per person for the expo only and $35 per person or $100 per family for the expo and 5k. Student discounts are also available. Capacity is limited, so get your tickets early. Online registration and information is available at www.lluch.org. “All in all, this is going to be a wonderful day,” Watkins concluded. “I can’t think of a better way to get the whole family excited about being outdoors and exercising!”