Running 26.2 miles through the endless crowds of spectators during the Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 31 was Ms. Amy Rider’s way of carrying on her father’s legacy. Not only was Colonel Jon K. Rider a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, he also suffered from Pulmonary Fibrosis, a chronic lung disease, and lost his struggle with the disease on August 9, 2010.
Colonel Rider was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis in 2002. His story proves that the disease can truly affect anyone, even the strongest and bravest members of our country. “My dad deserves the best of everything, and he got nailed with this disease,” said Ms. Rider.
Ms. Rider first participated in the Marine Corps Marathon last year, and in doing so began a powerful tradition. By committing to participate in the marathon Ms. Rider not only prepared physically, but also used the opportunity to raise money for Pulmonary Fibrosis research.
This year, after her father’s passing, Ms. Rider recruited her three sisters and a friend to train and fight through the race with her. Ms. Rider said, “I’m more determined than ever to find a cure so that people do not have to suffer.”
On the day of the marathon, the ‘Rider Kids for CPF’ were sporting bright red shirts and they crossed the finish line with their hands raised in victory. This year, they earned $25,875 towards Pulmonary Fibrosis research funds but still hope to reach their goal of $30,000.
Ms. Rider is also lobbying for government funding for Pulmonary Fibrosis. This year, Washington D.C. Congressman Brian Baird initiated a House Referendum to provide research and registry for the disease.
However, the same number of people die from Pulmonary Fibrosis as from breast cancer, and awareness is still minimal. “It’s frustrating to be the underdog,” said Ms. Rider.
Through her participation in the Marine Corps marathon, Ms. Rider wishes to bring happiness and hope as her father did while supporting all of our country’s veterans and making the world a better place. “Kindness could really change the world,” she said.
Additional reporting and writing done by Mac Trainor