Maher Family Brings Home a Victory

Jerry Maher, Jr., and his family delivered a victory on June 9 with the First Annual Parkinson’s Awareness Memorial 5K Run and Walk in memory of Jerry Maher, Sr. Held in Uniontown, the event drew more than 150 participants and raised $5,000 to help the Parkinson Chapter of Greater Pittsburgh fight Parkinson disease.

 Jerry’s father passed way on January 5, 2007 from complications of Parkinson disease. An avid runner, Jerry and his brother Roger were determined to hold an event to raise awareness about Parkinson disease and raise funds to fight PD. They were joined in the effort  by their mother, Susan, along with cousin Lauren Mahoney, and many others.

 The event featured age categories for 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49 and 50 and over. Awards were given to the top three male and female runners, the top three male and female walkers, and the top three male and females in each age group in both categories. Kids, age 12 and under, participated in a one-half mile fun run.

 A flat and fast “out and back” race, the 5K started in front of the Uniontown City Fire Department on Dunbar Street. Dexter Smart of Uniontown was the first to cross the finish line with a winning time of 17:05, followed quickly by the Ed Filcheck and Ryan McCormick with Jerry Maher in fourth.

A post race party in the Uniontown City Park featured prizes and awards for the top runners and walkers. Jerry and Roger thanked the crowd and sponsors for their support and participation. Chapter Executive Director Kevin Brown was on hand to assist in distributing the awards.

Our thanks go to the Maher family and the many local businesses and individuals who sponsored the event. Funds from the event will be used to support the Chapter’s Parkinson Wellness Program, outreach and education activities, and information support, and referral services.