Monmouth Man Runs 48 Miles In 2 Days In Memory Of Holmdel Child

HOLMDEL, NJ - A Monmouth County man recently took up the task of completing retired Navy SEAL David Goggins’ 4x4x48 Challenge, a grueling test of endurance that has participants run 48 miles in 48 hours without interruption. The challenge was completed in order to raise awareness and funding for research into SUDC, Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood, a phenomenon that took the life of a Holmdel toddler three years ago.

In 2017, healthy 2-year-old Vienna Carly Savino tragically died without any explanation. Her death was labeled as a Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC), a term used by medical examiners when they find no other reason to explain why a healthy child 1-18 years old suddenly passes away. An estimated 400 American children every year are given the SUDC label, a number which may be even higher as some deaths are incorrectly classified or not reported.

In the aftermath of unspeakable tragedy, Vienna’s mother, Dr. Denise Wunderler, DO, FAOASM, founded Team Vienna 4 SUDC Awareness Inc. and co-founded The SUDC Coalition, both aimed at increasing awareness, education and research support of SUDC.

Tinton Falls resident Brian Dragotto spearheaded the latest fundraising event for the effort in his attempt at the 4x4x48 Challenge on March 5, 6 and 7. Each four-hour time slot was dedicated to specific children who died of SUDC.

“When Brian told me about this challenge, I thought it was an incredible idea and was all for it 100 percent. Many SUDC families have been deeply touched by his amazing gesture to increase awareness of SUDC and to honor our kids,” Wunderler said in a statement.

Related: Holmdel Toddler's Unexplained Death Now Studied In Med School
Related: Bell Works To Host Fundraiser For Unexplained Death In Kids Study

The event was documented on social media, which can be viewed here. Dozens of area locals gathered at Thompson Park in Lincroft to cheer on Dragotto, some wielding handmade signs, others running alongside the Monmouth County man.

In the end, Dragotto helped to raise over $4,000 in funding for Team Vienna 4 SUDC Awareness.

“When I heard of this challenge, it reminded me of the incomprehensible challenge that parents who have lost a child to SUDC (Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood) go through every day,” Dragotto said in a statement. “Knowing Dr. Denise for years, she has an unstoppable work ethic, and her nonprofit is going to have a major impact for future families who may suffer through such a tragedy.” Read more: Holmdel Family Raises Awareness Of SUDC After Toddler Girl Dies

You can donate to Team Vienna 4 SUDC at www.Vienna.team and click on “How To Help.” You can also donate directly through the Facebook fundraiser here.