Miami

22-Year-Old With Cerebral Palsy Comes to Miami to Race in Marathon

What to Know

  • Sebastian Rosado, 22, holds an annual 5K in Puerto Rico to raise money for a summer camp for those with functional limitations.
  • Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico, causing the race to be canceled.
  • Rosado and his friends and team members decided to participate in the Miami Marathon and can use your help to raise money for Vida Alegre.

Sebastian Rosado, 22, has cerebral palsy. He arrived in Miami Friday from Puerto Rico with his family and a team of friends who will all participate in the Miami Marathon on Sunday.

Rosado, along with his therapist, started the “Run, Ride or Walk 5K” in Puerto Rico six years ago to benefit a summer camp for people with neurological conditions, such as his.

This year, when Hurricane Maria hit the island, it prevented the race from occurring for its seventh consecutive year.

Rosado decided to enter the Miami Marathon to raise money for “Vida Alegre,” which he says is the only summer camp of its kind on the island.

Rosado says the camp offers horseback riding, art, swimming and musical activities adapted for children and adults with functional limitations.

During the Miami Marathon, which is set to take place Sunday, Rosado, with the help of special equipment, intends to walk the last two miles of the race and cross the finish line near Bayfront Park.

“He has such grit and such personality,” said Valerie Gonzalez, one of Rosado’s three team members. “He never gives up. He’s been an inspiration to every runner who has ever seen him train.”

If you would like to donate to Rosado’s favorite cause, you can do so by clicking here.

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