Care for Carey 5K

Mrs. International is truly a job of service. This pageant system is so unique and special to me because it not only gives me and my family, but countless other state, regional, and country title holders, the opportunity to champion many causes and ultimately change lives.

I am extremely blessed to have a Mr. who believes in and exercises caring for others. Jason is truly a remarkable individual. He is a Godly man who is motivated by helping others. Just to give you an example; in 2007, I worked tirelessly with members of legislation to move NC from a state of intent to one of consent when it comes to organ donation. What did Jason do in 2007 to show his support and belief in saving others through organ donation? He rode his bicycle across the continental U.S. in the Race Across AMerica (RAAM) with Team Donate Life. In addition he donated one of his kidneys to Scott Thornburg, a very close friend in our Sunday school class! When I stated he’s remarkable, I wasn’t just trying to get brownie points with my hubby! He is one who leads by example. He inspires me to do more…

Currently he is coordinating a very special event that is coming up on August, 21, 2010. The first annual “Care For Carey 5K” will take place at Shelby City Park in Shelby, NC beginning at 8am. The Care For Carey 5K is a fundraiser for Carey Heavner, a remarkable little girl from our hometown who is currently battling stage 4 colon cancer. Jason thoroughly believes that when people are in need it is imperative that we pray for them.

But Jason also believes that almost as important is that we don’t JUST pray for them. Love requires action and he lets that motivate him to take action. So he and a few others decided to coordinate and host a 5K on Carey’s behalf. Jason has ran in many 5Ks before but this is his first experience of coordinating one from the ground up. As rewarding of an experience as it has been for him to this point, it is evident that his greatest reward comes from being able to spend time with Carey who has been nothing but courageous, admirable and inspirational throughout. This past week he and a friend gave Carey the #1 bib for the race. Certainly NO other number would be fitting of such a heroic person.

Although I am not much of a runner myself, you can bet that August 21, 2010 I will have my running shoes on in support of Carey. I just need to make sure I don’t run so fast that my crown falls off…

To read more about Carey’s story visit her Caring Bridge www.caringbridge.org/visit/careyheavner

Shannon Devine