Story of a Champion, an Uncle, an Inspiration to us All

Center Family Member runs 1,000 miles to honor his nephew, support the Center, and champion awareness of autism

Mark Burns is a member of an amazing family here at the Center. The Ploof family and "Conner's Team" have been among the top 2 fundraising teams every year over the last 10 years of our Community Walk and 5K Run for Autism Awareness. At the heart of the team is Conner, whose beautiful spirit and strength has inspired everyone who meets him.

Mark decided this year to create a personal goal to honor Conner, committing to run 1,000 miles and raise money for the Center.  Mark participated in our own 5K and we were able to catch up to him and ask him about this incredible gift.

  1. Tell me how you came up with the idea to do 1,000 miles.

  2.   We have been doing the Autism Resource Center Walk since 2004 and we were fairly successful in fundraising.  Last year I wanted to do something eye catching.  I decided to run my first ever half marathon - May, 2009.  I raised $2,400 and was thrilled with the result.  One of my running partners suggested the 1,000 mile goal and 3 half marathons as a worthy and eye-catching goal for 2010 and I adopted it as my fundraising theme.  (I am over $4,000 currently thanks to my very generous network of friends, family and colleagues.)

 

  1. How long have you been a runner?   

  2. I started running in 2005 with a Thanksgiving 5k.  I was terribly slow and was sore for 2 weeks after.  (even with training!)  I slowly moved up to 5 milers and in 2009 stepped up to a half marathon for Conner's team and Autism.

 

What would you say to anyone who would like to do something similar?  

1) Start slow with low miles and work up slowly to distance.  2) Try to get a local running partner.  It will keep you on your program.  3) Tell everyone in your network about your goals and accomplishments and challenge them to join you.  In lieu of joining you on a run...they can donate.  4) If your network does not donate at first...keep asking.  I sent out 4 requests/email updates on my progress and each communication ups my donations.   

    2. How are people able to donate to your cause?  www.firstgiving.com/runningforconner 

You can keep up with Mark's progress toward his goal on our Facebook Fan Page (click the facebook button below on this page!)  Thank you, 'Uncle Mark', for your amazing generosity! Best of luck as you continue your journey!

Autism Autism