Mount Prospect teen launches race for premature babies Aug. 9
A local teen is turning his passion for running and his personal connection to premature birth into an event that gives back to families facing similar journeys.
Nathan Favia, a 16-year-old cross country and track athlete at Prospect High School, is hosting the inaugural Miles for Miracles race 6 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 9, at the Melas Cross Country Course in Mount Prospect. The event is open to runners and walkers of all ages and abilities and will feature 1-mile, 2-mile and 3-mile race options.
Favia was inspired to organize the race because he was born a triplet and understands how special every milestone can be for families of premature babies. Through his love of running, he wanted to create an event that combines community, fitness and philanthropy while supporting an organization that means so much to him and his family.
All proceeds from the race will benefit the Little Giraffe Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting research and care for premature babies. The foundation funds groundbreaking neonatal research aimed at improving outcomes for premature infants and provides hope to families navigating difficult beginnings.
“Running has given me so much, and I wanted to use something I love to help others,” Favia said. “Being born a triplet has always made me appreciate how important research and medical care are for babies who arrive early. My hope is that this race brings our community together around a cause that touches so many families.”
Favia hopes to unite people from all parts of his life and the broader community through this event, including friends and families from St. Raymond School, Prospect High School alumni and current cross country and track team members, and the many athletes he has run alongside through Palatine Pack. He also hopes to welcome anyone whose life has been touched by prematurity. Whether they were born prematurely, have had a premature baby, know someone who was born early, or spent time in an NICU. Community members who simply want to support the cause are encouraged to participate as well.
The race will be professionally timed by Palatine Pack Timing, making it a great opportunity for competitive runners who want an official result, while remaining welcoming to casual runners and walkers participating simply to support the cause.
Registration is $25 per participant, and all proceeds directly benefit the Little Giraffe Foundation. Participants can register or make a donation by visiting runsignup.com/Race/IL/MountProspect/MilesForMiraclesRace.
The evening will also feature Kona Ice, available for purchase from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
The event is made possible through the support of local sponsors, including Elevate Physical Therapy, TNT, Dick Pond and Palatine Pack Timing.
Whether participants are chasing a personal record, enjoying a family walk, supporting someone who spent time in the NICU, or simply wanting to make a difference, everyone is invited to join together for an evening of community, hope and purpose.
Run for a reason. Run for miracles.
For information, email milesformiraclesrun@gmail.com.