Over 600 people joined the ATI Foundation on Saturday, November 8 for its annual East Coast Division Metal Walk & Fun Run and Chili Cook-Off, supporting local children with physical impairments. The event took place on the scenic Wilmington Riverfront in Delaware, and participants were treated to a sunny day filled with the walk/run, chili cook-off and tasting, face painting, live music, kids bouncy house, food and drink.
"We can't say thank you enough to all that supported this year's event," said Terry Williams, Director of the ATI Foundation. "This year, we were able to help a record number of local beneficiaries, and this would not be possible without the support of our patients, participants, employees and sponsors."
The highlight of the day was check presentations totaling $15,000 to five local ATI Foundation beneficiaries from Delaware, Maryland and Pennsylvania.
This Year's Beneficiaries
Christopher Garcia - New Castle, DE
Eight-year-old Christopher has severe cerebral palsy. The Foundation presented him with a check for $3,000 toward the purchase of a new, lightweight medical needs stroller. The stroller, which is not covered by insurance, will help Christopher's single mother move him in and out of their van on a daily basis.
Sean Everage - Philadelphia, PA
Sean is four years old and the youngest of six children. He suffers from chromosome deletion and has one of the rarest cases currently in the tri-state area (DE, MD, PA). The Foundation provided a check for $3,000 to assist with his mounting medical expenses.
Elizabeth Maramante – Millsboro, DE
Three-year-old Elizabeth has physical delays and sensory processing impairments. The Foundation provided $3,000 to cover the initial expense for her to begin participation in a new intensive therapy program in New York City. The program, which costs a total of $6,457, is not covered by insurance.
Eric Andrews – Port Deposit, MD
After being hit by a truck in 2012, Eric suffered a traumatic brain injury and stroke. Now 16 years old, Eric suffers from drop foot, which makes it difficult for him to walk and stay balanced. The Foundation donated $3,000 toward the purchase of a Bioness unit that will provide therapy for his drop foot. The unit, which costs $7,800, is not covered by insurance.
Jonathan Woodson - Newark, DE
Jonathon was born prematurely, which caused predominant left hemiparesis. In partnership with Preston’s March for Energy, the Foundation provided 14-year-old Jonathan with an adaptive bicycle so he can stay active.
2014 Chili Cook-Off
Adding to the post-event celebration was the Chili Cook-Off. This year, 10 local chefs prepared and served their finest chili creations. Congratulations to the 2014 Chili Cook-Off winners!
1st Place – ATI Bear East Clinic
2nd Place – Harry Franceschini
3rd Place – Phil Allen
People’s Choice Champion – Donna Campbell
The ATI Foundation extends a special thank you to this year's Metal Walk & Fun Run and Chili Cook-Off sponsors. Without the continued support from these gracious organizations, the Foundation could not complete its mission.
Advanced Rehabilitation Systems, Inc.
Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists
Ernie Loberg Construction
First State Orthopaedics
Kolbrook Design
Law Offices of Doroshow, Pasquale, Krawitz, & Bhaya
University of Maryland – Upper Chesapeake Health
Weik, Nitsche, Doughert & Galbraith Attorneys at Law
The ATI Foundation, a not-for-profit organization founded in 2003 by ATI Physical Therapy, is committed to aiding children with physical impairments in need of medical resources and funding to enhance and sustain a better quality of life. The focus of the ATI Foundation is to enhance communities local to where ATI Physical Therapy employees and patients live, work and serve. For more information, or to donate to the ATI Foundation, please visit www.ATIfoundation.com.