Run for those who can't

Cisco Tiani Dubai Run supports worldwide initiative to find a cure for spinal cord injury

Dubai, 1 May 2014

More than a hundred local Dubai runners will gather at Nad El Sheba Cycle Park in Dubai to run for those who can't, on the 4th of May at 6:00 pm. The 10km run takes place in support of the Wings for Life foundation, which aims to find a cure for spinal cord injuries.

More than 3 million people are affected by spinal cord injury. This number is increasing by 130,000 patients every year as a result of traffic accidents, awkward falls, sporting injuries and various other causes. The good news is that scientist agree: Injured neurons are able to regenerate, meaning that paraplegia will be curable one day.

Wings for Life focuses on 4 major areas in its efforts to find a cure for spinal cord injuries: Cutting-edge medical research, clinical studies and trials, scientific communication, and prevention.

To raise awareness and funds, the foundation is organizing the Wings for Life World Run, spanning 32 countries on six continents. On the 4th of May, starting from sunrise to sunset, in spring and autumn, through night and day, joggers, celebrities, marathon runners, triathletes and ultra-marathon runners will pass through 13 time zones, running for those who can't.

With no official Wings for Life World Run planned in Dubai this year, Cisco employee Chris Khouri decided to take initiative and organize the Cisco Tiani Dubai Run which shares the former's heart and spirit. 100% of the entry fees will go to Wings for Life.

Khouri's spinal cord was severely damaged in 2009 and he has since proved that excuses are the only thing stopping anyone from achieving what they want from life.

A few days before the run, a very enthusiastic Chris said: “The fact that I am in a wheelchair does not mean that I am going to drop everything. I chose to be active, to be stimulated, and to live.”