LOPA Trail Run For Life Is A Unique 5K And Fun Run

The LOPA Trail Run For Life is Sunday, October 27th in Carencro, LA. The trail run benefits the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency, whose core purpose is to save and heal lives through organ and tissue donation. It's held at Cherokee Ridge Horse Farm, which is what makes the Trail Run such a unique 5K and fun run. As you run or walk the trails you take in the beautiful scenery as the sun peeks through the trees and the horses are enjoying the company.

Shawn-Paul Harrison, Physician & Donation Specialist with LOPA, created this event six years ago and it has become one of the most talked-about 5Ks in Acadiana. Shawn-Paul put his heart and soul in this event each year and that's what makes it so special. Every year he creates the coolest ideas for awards and medals that always incorporate the earthy trail run vibe.

The Trail Run for Life is much more than an event.  It's an experience, a beautiful opportunity or platform to honor our life-saving Heroes and their families.  It's been an incredible blessing to be surrounded by such inspiring people. It's like a huge family reunion to come together and celebrate the Gift Of Life.  - Shawn-Paul Harrison, LOPA

 

My son, Christian, saved four lives and enhanced the lives of many as an organ donor when he died on May 30, 2013. Needless to say, this organization means so much to me. The trail run honors the heroes and their families as everyone celebrates the gift of life. I'm pictured below representing Christian.

The Tree of Life is located at the entrance of Cherokee Ridge Horse Farm. It is a reminder to everyone that enters or leaves the farm of what it represents. "Hope. Renewal. Legacy." It is about the heroes, the donor families, the recipients, those waiting on a life-saving transplant, and our community.

The event is always a lot of fun for the children too because they are encouraged to wear their favorite super-hero costumes to help honor the real heroes that have saved the lives of others. There is also a "Kids Korner" with face-painting, hero mask decorating, games and more! The kids (AND adults) enjoy painting "Love Rocks"! These rocks are a great way to show someone love through art and it's a great keepsake!

I can't end this without telling you about the infamous vintage couch that has become the perfect photo spot for the Lopa Trail Run For Life! You can't leave without getting a family pic, a team pic, or just a solo pic on the coolest sofa in Acadiana.

The Trail Run For Life is Sunday, October 27th at Cherokee Ridge Horse Farm in Carencro. Open registration is at 8:00 am and the race starts at 9:00 am. The race registration fee is $35. Register here.