Cindy Mendez and the Freedom Jogger
Cindy Mendez ran her first Indianapolis Mini-Marathon in 1988 with her good friend Betty Priest. It was at that race that Cindy first started having symptoms of multiple sclerosis … which has since kept her from doing the sport she loved so much.
This past year Betty Priest realized how much she missed sharing the racing experience with Cindy and knew there had to be a way to get Cindy back on the track. They considered pushing Cindy in a wheelchair throughout the race, but after almost tipping it over during training, they realized that it wouldn’t be very safe.
They learned about a safer, easier alternative that would be perfect for this experience. The makers of BabyJogger strollers has also made a jogger for adult-sizes … but such a big piece of equipment would cost a big amount of money.
After reaching out to their contacts, Cindy and Betty got in touch with The Running Company stores owned by Bob Kennedy and Ashley Johnson. They heard Cindy’s story and knew immediately that they wanted to help. The Running Company purchased the adult-sized jogger for Cindy and her team to use for the race, and they are now able to compete with everyone else!
The Running Company owns the jogger and is willing to lend it out to people in similar situations. You can find out more information by going to www.erunningcompany.com or by calling (317) 202-0202. If you would like to stop by and check it out, it will be on display at The Running Company store on Broad Ripple Avenue.


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Hi Erin,
I just wanted you to know - WE FINISHED! Our time was 3 hrs 28 min 58 seconds. I have not been this sense of accomplishment in a while. The experience of being in the race & on the course again was WONDERFUL! The really best part was all the encouragement from the spectators along the course (they called us by our first names,so they saw the piece WRTV 6 aired). We are planning on participating again next year. Also, two members of my family and another friend are seriously considering participating next year. This experience has brought such a variety of new people into my life, including you. I can’t thank you enough for contributing to my experience. I am truly blessed.
We (Betty & myself) are considering entering the Irvington Run Run. It’s not as long but it is beautiful and now we have the means, thanks to The Running Company.
Thank you again & God be with you