LEGS OF LOVE set for June 9, First American Full and Half-Marathon to Benefit Israel Children’s Hospital

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ – On June 9, 2013, hundreds will embark upon Branch Brook Park in Essex County, NJ to run in one of five races - from USATF certified full and half-marathons to a 10K, 5K and family fun run - to raise money for the care and treatment of children at the ALYN Hospital in Jerusalem.

The event, LEGS OF LOVE, is the first US-based run to benefit a charity in Israel. Money raised will fund the medical treatment and care of thousands of physically disabled children at Israel’s only pediatric comprehensive rehabilitation center. Annually, the ALYN Hospital, which is not funded by the government, faces a minimum of a $3 million deficit, the discrepancy between the cost of treatment covered by medical insurance and the actual cost of providing the care. Funds raised by LEGS OF LOVE runners will help make up the shortfall. The event is hosted by the American Friends of AYLN Hospital, a New York-based nonprofit organization.

For skilled runners, LEGS OF LOVE is attractive beyond its charity component. The USTAF certified half and full marathon routes are flat and are official qualifiers for those seeking entre into elite races like the ING New York City Marathon and Boston Marathon. The routes are also beautiful. As participants run through the Olmstead-designed landmark park, they will experience paths that wind around lakes and over foot bridges, while viewing the largest collection of cherry trees in the country. Water and medical support stations will be set up at each mile. The finish-lines will be celebrations with food and entertainment for all ages.

Adult runners will be required to raise between $750 and $1,500 depending upon the chosen route. Students with valid student identification must raise $500. Wheelchair and disabled runners are invited to participate without having to reach a fundraising minimum. Registration begins at 6 a.m.; marathon and half-marathon begin at 8 a.m.; 10K and 5K begin at 10 a.m.; family one-mile fun run begins at noon. Closing ceremonies will be held at 12:30 p.m.

The world renowned ALYN Hospital combines the most innovative medical, educational, and rehabilitative techniques for patients with a wide range of orthopedic, neurological and neuromuscular conditions. Children at ALYN overcome challenges with the help of doctors, psychologists, social workers, teachers, physical and occupational therapists, medical clowns and more.

To register to run or volunteer or to donate, visit www.legsoflove.org, email info@legsoflove.org, or call 212-869-8085.