- April 26, 2024
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A 7-year-old runner with a genetic disease took a tumble right before the finish line. But she kept on going.
BY EMILY BLACKWOOD | STAFF WRITER
It wasn’t the ideal day for an inspiring success story. Rain was drizzling on and off with an inevitable thunderstorm on it’s way. The chilliness of the morning was only bearable through huge coats and complimentary coffee from Dunkin' Donuts.
Still, the young runners for the Tomoka Elementary 5K were not to be stopped. And one runner in particular had a few more steps to overcome.
Shoshana Ravede, a 7-year-old with a rare genetic disease, was all smiles before the race, where she would attempt to run her first mile. Shoshana learned to walk only two years ago.
With her mom, dad, older brother and a few fans from Tomoka Elementary, Shoshana got on her feet and pushed through the final mile of the 5K. But there was one more obstacle to overcome.
At the very edge of the finish line, Shoshana slipped on the wet road and fell. With her delayed development, she hasn’t yet learned how to use her hands to break a fall. She busted her upper lip.
Still, she crossed the finish line. This time in her father Jim Ravine’s arms.
Shoshana was still all smiles as paramedics checked her out, surrounded by a big group of people that cared. She got 13 stitches at the hospital.
