2004... In the Beginning...

A good friend of the Axford family, Cindy Fishman of Scottsdale, was training for her first half marathon. She asked Casey if she could run in his honor. Cindy said, "It was a way for me to show my love and support for my friends at a time when I felt they needed it most.".

Casey saw a need to replenish UMC'S Pediatric Outpatient Blood & Marrow Fund, which supports young oncology patients who receive outpatient medical care and shared his concern with Cindy. This fund provides books, toys, art supplies, audiovisual materials and other items to distract patients during their treatments, entertain them during their long visits to the clinic and cheer them up during this upsetting time. The fund was depleted and the staff had no way of helping the deserving children.

With their goal established, Cindy began to recruit runners and walkers for the January Marathon. Many had never entered a marathon before and were wary of running and/or walking the 13.1 or 26.2 miles but jumped on board for the good cause! They asked family and friends to sponsor them in the race. Casey was everyone's inspiration!  It became a passion to collect for UMC in Casey's honor.

Once donors heard Casey's wishes to help all the children going through the arduous treatment process of blood and marrow transplants, the donations flooded in from all across the United States. It was extremely gratifying to open the TeamCasey donation envelopes and see the generosity of people willing to honor Casey and support his worthy cause.

Over the Years...
Over the past several years, the number of runners and walkers has increased.  Supporters and donations have grown as well.  Many businesses have donated t-shirts, banners, and food as well as some offering their services.  After the arduous run/walk, participants are invited to enjoy a tailgating lunch as massage therapists relieve their tired muscles!

Today...
Runners, walkers and supporters continue to raise money each January during the PF Chang Rock and Roll Marathon and throughout the year.  The team welcomes everyone who wishes to continue Casey's wish and legacy of helping those going through a difficult time of illness.