Angie Andresen had a goal. To finish the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon in under two hours. An average pace of 9 minutes and 10 seconds, per mile.
In distance running, as it often happens, she hit a wall. The point in a race when an athlete feels like she’s running out of steam. Angie’s goal seemed less and less attainable as the miles felt harder and harder.
She needed a boost – and found a beacon. Just ahead, she spotted a runner wearing a gold cape. Written on it were names, messages and signs from kids. Signs that Angie needed to keep moving.
Almost 19 years ago, Angie’s son, Alexander, died when he was 6 days old. He had been transferred to Children’s Minnesota after being diagnosed with a serious infection. Alex’s twin brother, Max, was then transferred to Children’s, where he stayed for another month before heading home.
Children’s has since had a special place in Angie’s heart, so the gold Children’s cape caught her eye.
Another special symbol for Angie and her family is the monarch butterfly, which – whenever they see one – is a reminder of Alex’s short time here on earth.
On that gold cape, worn by Children’s hematology and oncology nurse, Erin Bevers, was a monarch butterfly pin, and written next to the pin was the name Alex.
It was just the sign – and boost – Angie needed to keep moving in the direction of her goal. She crossed the finish line in 1 hour and 58 minutes – in part, thanks to Erin and her cape, which gave Angie the wings to fly.
Erin ran on behalf of Children’s Team Superstars. She joined 45 other athletes – employees, patient families and other community members – who collectively raised nearly $82,000 for vital Children’s programs. Commit to a run and fundraise for Children’s like Erin by joining Team Superstars today!
