Camillus residents Shane Crossett and Rob Howes to raise awareness for cerebral palsy, funds for Charity Bib Team Make-A-Wish Central New York
On one of the hottest days of the year, Camillus residents Shane Crossett and Rob Howes will journey through the Boilermaker’s 15K Road Race as part of Team Make-A-Wish, one of 10 charities affiliated with the Boilermaker’s Charity Bib Program.
What makes the pair’s journey special? Crossett will push Howes, a close friend with cerebral palsy, in a wheelchair from start to finish along the challenging 9.3 mile course, which winds its way through the streets of Utica. With a maximum of two hours and 30 minutes to complete the course, Crossett – a first-time Boilermaker runner – has his work cut out for him. But he’s not daunted.
“I’m sure it will be a hot summer day and I know with such a large volume of runners the course will be crowded,” Crossett said. “I have never pushed anyone in a race before but am training hard and know whenever I’m feeling tired all I have to do is look down in front of me for some motivation.”
Crossett has known Howes since 2002 when Crossett played West Genesee modified lacrosse for Howes’ father Eric, who coached the team. They’ve been friends ever since.
“Some of my most fond memories with Rob are shooting hoops in his driveway, playing catch with his lacrosse sticks and cruising the mall for chicks – his word not mine,” Crossett said with a laugh. “I wanted to involve Robbie because he is truly an athlete at heart and he has done more for me than he will ever know. I can only hope he will feel as free as I do while I’m running.”
Crossett said he is inspired by his friend, and so is everyone who knows Howes.
“Rob has a constant positive outlook on life,” Crossett said. “He has a great laugh that can be heard every day, whether he’s on his way to a painful medical treatment or cheering on his brother and sister through their many endeavors. His ability to get the most out of everyday inspires me to work a little harder and stay happy with everything I do.”
Crossett is utilizing the Boilermaker run as a way to raise awareness about cerebral palsy, as well as to raise awareness and funds for Make-A-Wish Central New York.
“My goal for this run is to help show people that with a small amount of support, individuals with mental or physical disabilities are capable of accomplishing anything they desire,” he said.
Crossett’s goal is to raise $2,000 for Make-A-Wish Central New York. To support Crossett and Howes in their effort, go to makeawishcny.kintera.org/2016Boilermaker.
About Make-A-Wish Central New York
Make-A-Wish Central New York is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to granting the special wishes of children between the ages of 2 ½ and 18 with life-threatening medical conditions. More than just nice gestures, wishes provide the child and family with a bit of respite, and infuse hope, strength and joy into a difficult life experience. Make-A-Wish is able to continue to share the power of a wish® thanks to the generous support of individuals and businesses throughout its 15-county region, which includes Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, Otsego, St. Lawrence, Tioga and Tompkins counties. For more information, cny.wish.org.
