Race for a Reason 5k

On August 29, 2004, Hopewell High School, as well as the surrounding communities suffered a great loss when the beloved Ryan Disney passed away. Ryan was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at the young age of seven years old. Although this disease was a major setback in his life, Ryan fought daily to maintain a typical teenager's life.  He did not wish to seek any special attention nor did he expect different treatment from anyone. Ryan longed to fit in with the crowd more than anything, and wanted his peers to look past his disability. Ryan's ability to walk faded while he was in high school, but he was determined to lead an ordinary life. He took part in the Special Olympics and extracurricular activities each year, and had an extraordinary ability to thrive at DECA competitions. Ryan Disney was an important part of the Hopewell student body, and active member of the DECA chapter, and a familiar face within the community.

Soon after he passed away, his fellow DECA members wanted a way to honor Ryan. To keep his memory alive, Hopewell DECA started the Race for a Reason 5K.