Run helping all find their strength
Runners take off from the starting line in the first Find Your Strength 5K/1K Fun Run in 2022. Sponsored by Bonner General Health Foundation, proceeds from the run will help pay for an Exoskeleton — a state-of-the-art wearable robotic device that assists in gait training and mobility for those who have lost their ability to walk.
(Photo courtesy WILLOW SOLLY PHOTOGRAPHY)
SANDPOINT — Today's Find Your Strength Family Fun Run is a chance to tap into your inner superhero — and help others in the community find theirs.
This 5K and superhero-themed 1K start and finish at City Beach and run down the trail along Sand Creek. The run concludes with a family-friendly after-party on the lawn of Trinity at City Beach, complete with music, food, drinks, magicians, face painting, and more.
Children 8 and under can participate for free, and registration is at a reduced price of $20 for ages 9 to 17. Adults are $45 if you register ahead of time and $50 the day of the event. If people are unable to attend the race but would like to participate in the after-party, all are invited.
Funds raised during the run will go toward the purchase of an exoskeleton.
The device is the first of its kind that the FDA has approved to aid patients recovering from injuries such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and more in relearning how to walk. The device, which reteaches the brain to walk, is worn by the patient and provides posture support and movement assistance, enabling the patient to balance and shift weight.
As a result, patients can then perform movements such as stepping in place, bending, and squatting, according to the device manufacturer, Ekso Bionics.
Having already raised a good portion of the funds needed to pay for the exoskeleton and supporting costs such as training and contract maintenance, Bonner General Health Foundation officials said they hope to reach their goal with Saturday's Find Your Strength 5K/1K Fun Run.
Having this technology at Bonner General Health will benefit people in our community and those from throughout the Inland Northwest. Currently, the closest facility with an exoskeleton is in Wenatchee, Wash. With this addition to BGH, we would be the only hospital in Idaho with this technology.
Information: Bonner General Health Foundation, bonnergeneral.org/foundation