Ryan Reynolds Running NYC Marathon to Honor Dad With Parkinson’s

Though he admits, “I am a running joke,” he says he is determined to hit the finish line to honor his father Jim, who has spent the last 15 years battling Parkinson’s.

“I’ve watched my father — a strong and proud person who successfully raised 4 arguably insane children - slowly, cruelly stripped of his independence,” he writes in a new Huffington Post column.

“Witnessing my Dad suffer over the years galvanized my need to step up,” he goes on. “On November 2nd, I’ll join thousands of other men and women to march in lockstep solidarity toward searing psychic pain and physical humiliation.”

Reynolds — who recently wed Scarlett Johansson — says he is also running in support of Michael J. Fox, who is also afflicted with Parkinson’s.

“Like so many before me, I found it impossible not to be touched by his story of overwhelming strength, passion and relentless commitment to help those afflicted with this insidious disease. The man is inspiration exemplified,” Reynolds writes. “Plus, he was in Back To The Future.”

Reynolds is asking for a donation but insists, “No donation is too small - and certainly, no donation is too large. And if you don’t give anything at all, maybe I’ve primed you for a future donation in someone else’s name. For someone else’s cause.” (Click here to make a donation.)

He says fans are welcome to greet him at the finish line.

“On behalf of me, my father, and everyone struggling with Parkinson’s,” Reynolds signs off, “our endless gratitude.”

(source)

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