Caden Hightower is 9^th grader at Coaster Leadership Academy who is training for track season. This February, the miles he runs will be dedicated to a friend.

Caden will run in support of his friend Luke Thompson. Luke was born with Down syndrome and a congenital heart defect. Family Connection of South Carolina has supported Luke’s journey from the start. The Thompson family creates a team in Luke’s honor at our annual Buddy Walk event. Caden will donate the money he raises to Family Connection and to Grand Strand Miracle Leagues.

Luke Thompson will be turning three on February 18.  His mom, Lacey, says he has a big, funny personality and is always smiling.  Luke loves to play chase, climb, swing, and throw balls.  He also loves to dance and SING! Luke may not say a lot of words when he’s talking, but he expresses many, many words when he is singing songs. 

Caden’s goal is to run 80 miles in February! He says even if the weather is dreary, he will run the miles because Luke inspires him, and he would love everyone to know how awesome his friend is. He is asking supporters to pledge an amount for each mile he runs, or to make a one-time donation. He is tracking his progress after each run on his Run Caden Run Facebook page. 

“We are so grateful for our son Luke”, says Lacey Thompson. “He has not only changed our family for the better, but he changes the lives of everyone who meets him.  Just being around Luke will change anyone’s perspective on life and instantly help them see the world in a better way. Caden’s decision to dedicate his February training to organizations who help Luke is a perfect example.”

Visit Run Caden Run to make a per-mile pledge or one-time donation!