Peabody's Progeria Foundation Race For Research Returns For 25th Year

PEABODY, MA — The Progeria Research Foundation in Peabody will mark a major milestone this fall when it hosts its 25th Annual International Race for Research on Sept. 19 at Leather City Common.

The event, presented by PRF and longtime partner TruNorth Bank, includes a 5K run, a 2-mile walk and a virtual participation option for supporters worldwide.

The race is Peabody's longest-running family-friendly 5K. The event begins at 9 a.m. at Leather City Common. Participants can choose to run the 5K course or walk the 2-mile route.

Music, refreshments, and a dog watering station are also planned.

The Peabody-based nonprofit said money raised will support its gene-editing program, which it describes as the most promising path toward curing Progeria syndrome — which causes rapid aging among children, resulting in high death risks by teen years.

The organization said children with Progeria are living longer and reaching young adulthood with support from PRF research programs and lonafarnib, which it identifies as the first and only FDA-approved treatment for the disease.

PRF co-founders Drs. Leslie Gordon, a Peabody native, and Scott Berns are expected to attend, along with PRF Ambassador Carlos and other children with Progeria and their families.

"Twenty-five years ago, we had hope and not much else. Today, we have an FDA-approved treatment and a gene editing drug that could potentially cure Progeria in our lifetime," said Audrey Gordon, PRF president and executive director. "Every person who has ever run this race, walked this course, or otherwise supported this cause is part of that story.

"This September, we celebrate 25 years together as we race toward the finish line of a cure."

The race includes in-person activities in Peabody and a virtual option for supporters elsewhere.

Over the past quarter-century, the event has grown from a local community 5K into a global fundraiser.

"At TruNorth Bank, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting causes that truly matter," said Michael R. Wheeler, TruNorth Bank president and chief executive officer. "Being part of PRF's 25th Race for Research is a privilege, and this milestone is a testament to what happens when a community refuses to give up.

"We are proud to stand beside the Progeria Research Foundation as they race toward a cure."

Registration is available here or by calling 978-535-2594.