Local couple hopes Ascent try raises money for adoption
- Details
- Created on Thursday, 19 August 2010 20:29
- Written by Joe Paisley
By JOE PAISLEY, THE GAZETTE
When Jamie Berry trained for this Saturday’s Pikes Peak Ascent, his mind wasn’t focused on his heart rate or his minutes per mile like so many of the 1,800 race entrants.
Instead, he imagined his future adopted children.
“I hate running,” he said. “But thinking about them certainly gives me the motivation I need. I’ve never believed in anything as much as this.”
He and his wife Misty, both area social workers, are hoping his first attempt will prompt people to donate toward the $30,000 they need to adopt two of Ethiopia’s 5 million orphans through Youth With A Mission, a nonprofit Christian organization.
Adopting children was something both wanted to do before they had met. Now married for three years, they want to adopt two preschool-age siblings before having their own.
“It’s something we’ve always felt drawn to do,” Jamie said.
Misty, 32, was surprised by the race idea. Jamie, 29, has since competed in a half-marathon and two shorter races to qualify for the Ascent.
“I thought it was ridiculous (at the time) because he wasn’t a runner,” she said. “He felt he needed to do something big to raise money. I’m confident he’ll make it now.”
They have $1,000 raised and need another $2,600 to pay for the initial home visit when the nonprofit, which Misty worked for a few years ago, examines their home and does further background checks.
The remainder — covering travel costs and myriad government fees — can be raised over the next year through fundraisers and loans, Jamie said. The couple will travel there twice for interviews and court hearings.
A year ago, they sold their tiny house and spent months in a friend’s RV to save money for the larger home they now have. Misty, who assists refugee children through Lutheran Family Services, has baby-proofed their house, maintained their blog on their adoption efforts and done lots of paperwork.
Jamie, who coordinates senior support services for Silver Key, says friends and co-workers have been supportive.
“People are sharing our story with other people, spreading awareness,” he said. “That means a ton to me.”
Saturday’s race includes the World Mountain Running Association’s long distance challenge, drawing teams from Australia, Europe and the USA, which includes locals Tommy Manning and Ryan Hafer. The U.S. women include defending champ Megan Kimmel.
Sunday’s marathon, which features defending champ Matt Carpenter of Manitou Springs, is also one of five major races in the Skyrunner World Series.
More info
Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon
Saturday’s 13.32-mile ascent
Start, 600 block Manitou Ave., City Hall, 7 a.m., Wave 1; 7:30 a.m., Wave 2, finish at summit
Sunday’s marathon
Start, 600 block Manitou Ave., City Hall, 7 a.m.; finish, Soda Springs Park
Packet pickup
All entrants must provide photo identification
Memorial Park, 500 block Manitou Ave.
9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today; 5:30-7:15 a.m. Saturday (ascent only), 1-7 p.m. Saturday; 5:30-6:45 a.m. Sunday
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