On this special edition of "Every Runner Has A Reason," Gina Truesdale and her family are very important to Casey Cares and its community.

Her son, Abraham "Hammy" Scrivner, was in Casey Cares program during his 4 year treatment for a very rare form of brain cancer. 

"Casey Cares provided uplifting activities that would take our minds off doctors’ appointments and hospital treatments, even if it was just for an hour or two. We met families who were going through similar challenges as we were, and we were able to lean on each other in fun environments," Gina states.

She continues, "Hammy was very athletic and played soccer, football, basketball, baseball, and lacrosse. He was also instrumentally inclined, playing the cello, trumpet, and snare drum; while also singing in his school's chorus. Hammy was the caregiver to two red-eared slider turtles named Rocky and Crush whom he loved and adored."

After Hammy passed away at age 10, Gina jumped into Casey Cares as a volunteer and created the “Hammy’s Heart” program to fulfill her son's last wish to help feed others. That program supplies grocery store gift cards to families who need assistance while caring for a critically ill child. Since families are often overwhelmed with so many other financial obligations, this program helps with basic needs when money is stretched to its limits.

Gina started running the Casey Cares 5K in memory of her son and "to support Casey Cares families still in the program."

Not only does she enjoy walking "to get my exercise for the day" but finds that the best part is that it "helps Casey Cares."

Every year, Gina always tries to make it to Casey Cares 5K and is excited that "the zoo was a nice new option."

You won’t be able to miss Gina and her team because there is one thing she will not run without – “My new Hammy t-shirt!”

Her family is the reason Casey Cares does what we do and how your registration supports children and their families like Hammy and Gina. When you are at the Maryland Zoo on August 5th and you see the “Hammy’s Hearts” t-shirts, be sure to say hello! Join Gina and sign up today!