St. Catherine’s Academy, a Catholic school in Orange County, will hold its annual Jog-A-Thon on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at the school’s campus in Anaheim. Now in its 13th year, the event supports the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA).

Coach Greg Jones began organizing the Jog-A-Thon when Chelsea, a close friend of the SCA Family, was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia at age 5. Now 19, Chelsea struggles with the disease but remains cheerful and loving because of her strong sense of hope. Chelsea is expected to attend the Jog-A-Thon this year if her health allows.

In the weeks leading up to the Jog-A-Thon, students at this Orange County Catholic school learn about the disease in their classes, motivating them to run for this important cause. “There are no prizes or medals for SCA cadets in this venture, but a win for Chelsea and Friedrich’s Ataxia research,” says Jones. The entire student body, grades kindergarten through eighth, will participate in the event. As in previous years, Sisters, teachers, and parents are likely to join in. Last year, students raised over $3,000 for FARA.

Read More: St. Catherine’s Annual Jog-A-Thon Supports Research for Friedrich’s Ataxia