September 30, 2008 --

The walk in Fort Worth, TX was a HUGE success! We had 124 walkers at the park bright and early on Saturday, September 20th. As everyone approached the registration desk, we welcomed them, collected the necessary documents/donations, handed out t-shirts, and then invited them to check out our giveaway table.

We had a representative from Nike present to hand out key chains to the walkers. At the giveaway table we also had a sign that read “Wristbands available for our honorees – those that have been diagnosed with Chiari Malformation.” Those that had Chiari were excited to be able to take away something special!

The walkers took photos by the banner at the pavilion and listened to oldies music while enjoying bottled water and waiting to get started. Once 8:00AM came around, we gathered everyone for a speech. I welcomed the group and thanked them for coming to take the steps (literally) towards finding a cure for Chiari. After the speech, the walkers took off and enjoyed their 1 or 3 mile walk (they were able to choose the distance they were capable of walking). What a beautiful day it turned out to be!

After the walk, we enjoyed lunch at Chipotle! Chipotle graciously offered to feed our group after the walk concluded.

All in all, it was a great day. Conversations were started early in the morning, and continued throughout the day. We had a variety of those that have been diagnosed with Chiari for several years, to those that had just recently been told they have this disorder. There were several families that had questions and were comforted that they found a support group on that day. Email addresses and phone numbers were exchanged in an effort to keep in touch!

We are already looking forward to the 2nd annual Conquer Chiari walk in Fort Worth!

 -- Stacy Jones
 

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