
Fidget Runner 2020
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I used to weigh over 360 pounds. Fourteen years ago a doctor told me that if I did not make major lifestyle changes that I should go ahead and get my affairs in order as I could plan to die within the next six months. By God’s grace, the love of my amazing wife and the help of many others, I have been able to lose 200 pounds and gain a new lease on life. I received love and support from a whole lot of people on my journey to wellness. I now count every day as a blessing and have made it my life‘s work to try and reach out and help those that struggled like me. To that end, my wife and I created “Thin By Faith”.

Last week my wife shared with me a segment from the show Texas Country Reporter (TCR) about a group in Granbury Texas called “The Fidget Chicks”. TCR Episode
They help those struggling with Dementia and Alzheimer’s by creating fidget mats. These mats have helped people who haven’t spoken in over two years to rediscover their voices. The fidget chicks lovingly give their time and resources collecting materials and hand creating each unique mat. Their goal is to create more groups across the country and around the world that can make mats for Dementia patients in their communities.
Fidget Chicks
I have been a witness to the devastating impact Dementia and Alzheimer’s can have on a family. I watched as my grandmother, one of the toughest women I’ve ever met, was ravaged by the disease. My family is now supporting my father and his end-stage struggle with Dementia. These cruel diseases not only impacted patients but take a devastating toll on the caregivers in their life. My mother, the rock of our family has endured amazing hardships as she takes care of my father.
This year by God’s grace I will turn 54. Not bad for someone who was not supposed to live beyond 40. In recognition, my goal is to Run/walk nonstop for 54 miles on the streets of Smithville Texas. All of the proceeds raised through this initiative will go to support the Fidget Chicks in furthering their cause to help as many of those struggling with dementia and Alzheimer’s as can be reached.
I plan to wear a jersey with the names of loved ones, living and past who have fought the battle with dementia. Anyone who donates $10 or more can have the name of someone they love printed on my jersey. Gold for those who’ve passed. Blue or Pink for patients. Silver for caregivers.
Please help us to make as large of impact as we can.
Thank you in advance.
Blessings,
Mark and Margie Peres
Thin By Faith
Organizer
Mark Peres
Organizer
Bastrop, TX