Pittsburgh Rare Disease Community Transitions Beloved Event to Virtual
PITTSBURGH, May 29, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Seven years ago, volunteers in Pittsburgh began preparations for a 5K to support nonprofit Team PHenomenal Hope's mission to end a rare lung disease, pulmonary hypertension (PH). Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, things may be vastly different this year, but that won't prevent the PH community from participating virtually in the PHenomenal Hope 5K starting on Saturday, June 27.
PH is a rare disease that causes high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, which puts unnecessary stress on both the heart and the lungs. Currently, there is no cure, and, eventually, it can be fatal. One of the most aggressive symptoms of the disease is shortness of breath, which prevents patients from being able to do ordinary things, such as climbing the stairs, without becoming exhausted.
Team PHenomenal Hope's mission is to fund medical research into improved treatments or a cure for those who suffer from pulmonary hypertension, and to implement programs and services that remove patients from isolation, build community, and provide hope.
Race Director Kayla Frattini has a personal connection to Team PHenomenal Hope's mission: her mom. "My mother battled pulmonary hypertension for six years before ultimately succumbing to the progressive nature of it. I have seen first hand the effects this disease has on people and the few treatment options available. It is my goal to bring as much awareness, education, and research for this disease as possible."
With the event going entirely virtual, participants may register any time at http://www.phenomenalhope5k.com for only $20. The event will last a week, beginning on Saturday, June 27 until Saturday, July 4, and will give participants the ability to track their movement throughout the week. Those who move the most by the end of the week will receive first, second, and third place prizes. Participants will also have access to bid on auction items, special encouraging communications, and other surprises throughout the week.
Frattini and her team of volunteers worked to make the 2019 event a record breaking year, bringing in more than 600 participants and $40,000 to support research for a cure. Although there is caution surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, she is still reassured that this year will be successful.
"This event means a great deal to hundreds of people. As such, we are dedicated to taking the necessary precautions in order to provide a safe atmosphere and ensure this event can go on successfully. We have several new sponsors this year and we are looking forward to having another great event," shared Frattini.
For more information, to register for the race, or to donate to the cause, go to http://www.phenomenalhope5k.com. Visit http://www.teamph.org to learn more about Team PHenomenal Hope.
SOURCE Team PHenomenal Hope
