Neighbor News
Ready to Run; Raising Funds for Local Rare Genetic Disorder Nonprofit
On November 1, Nicole Dalto, of Simsbury, CT, will toe the starting line alongside thousands of runners at the TCS New York City Marathon.
On November 1, Nicole Dalto, of Simsbury, CT, will toe the starting line alongside thousands of runners at the TCS New York City Marathon. What makes Nicole’s journey special, isn’t the miles she’s putting in, but the reason behind them.
“In February, I was able to combine my passions for bettering the lives of children and running, into a career opportunity at the CdLS Foundation. Working with Team CdLS, and these special families, makes the job fun and rewarding,” said Nicole.
Though not fast enough to time-qualify, or lucky enough to gain entry by lottery, Nicole was inspired and motivated enough to join Team CdLS as a charity runner.
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“My brother, Robert Dalto, has always been my fitness inspiration; he’s dedicated, motivated, loves a challenge, and he has earned many victories,” said Nicole. “This year he told me he was running the New York City Marathon. I desperately wanted the chance to run with him. (By which I mean over an hour behind him.)”
Nicole is raising funds to go toward her fundraising goals as she prepares to run the New York City Marathon for Team CdLS. Charity runners have fundraising minimums, and Nicole must raise $2,500 before November 1.
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“For four years every running step has been for me; for my health, to relieve my stress, to accomplish my goals. This 26.2, and the training that goes with it, are for someone else. The miles are no longer just for me, but rather they serve a purpose that is greater than my needs. I know that on mile 25, when I’m hearing the cheering crowd, and I’m looking up at that phenomenal skyline, I will be encouraged and motived to finish strong knowing that the pain has been worth it to help one of those kids. They’re certainly worth it.”
For more information about the CdLS Foundation or to make a donation, call 800-753-2357 or visit www.cdlsusa.org. You can mention Nicole’s name to have your donation count towards her race goals.
About CdLS
Cornelia de Lange Syndrome occurs in about 1 in 10,000 births. An estimated 20,000 people in the U.S. have CdLS but remain undiagnosed and/or without support services. Individuals with CdLS range from mildly to severely affected, though most have similar physical characteristics including small size, hands and feet; thin eyebrows that meet in the middle; long eyelashes; upturned nose; and thin, downturned lips. Some individuals have limb differences, including missing fingers or arms.
About the Foundation
Founded in 1981, the Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation is a family support organization that exists to ensure early and accurate diagnosis of CdLS, promote research into the causes and manifestations of the syndrome, and help people with a diagnosis of CdLS and their families make informed decisions throughout their lifetime.
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