Runner's On A Mission (R.O.A.M)

This is where your donation will go at Night Fest Run.

Craig and Michelle Logan have been serving with Arise and Shine Philippines for over 22 years. In 2001 they adopted Justin, who has special needs. Justin had bacterial meningitis when they got him as a baby. The couple spent many months in the hospital that first year fighting to save Justin’s life.

Team Logan/R.O.A.M. - Michelle, Justin and Craig

Through it all, Craig and Michelle’s prayer was that Justin’s life would make a difference and fulfill the purpose that God intended for him. After his recovery, the couple started Justin in physical and occupational therapy at home, and thus was the start of Justin’s long road to recovery.

It was while talking with the therapists during the many hours of Justin’s therapy that Craig and Michelle realized there were so many other children out there that did not have access to therapy. There are so many needs that a special child has and this can be overwhelming for parents who may not even have enough for basic needs.

Craig and Michelle had a desire to help other families and children with special needs but did not know how they could help since Justin’s own needs were quite overwhelming. Over the years, Justin has been blessed by others donating standing frames, wheel chairs, braces and many other items to help with his therapy needs.

R.O.A.M. and NRA (Never Run Alone)

All the therapy has definitely paid off for Justin. He may not be able to walk or talk but he has come a long way. He loves to smile and to hug and kiss anyone who comes near. So the question became…How can the Logan family share all the blessings they have received with others? That’s how the idea for “Runners On A Mission” was born.

Team Logan first came on the scene in 2006. At first the “team” consisted of Craig and Justin until Michelle was inspired to join the team and make it a family affair. Team Logan started out just joining a few of the bigger races, not knowing of any others. In 2008, they joined Takbo.ph and found that they could run in more races than their feet could take them!

Running had become a popular sport in the Philippines. Team Logan’s desire has always been to inspire other families with special needs children to realize their child’s full potential. They have met others along the way that have that same desire. Some have even brought their children out to join races.

Along the way, Team Logan realized that it’s through their running that they can help meet the needs of other special needs children in the Philippines. That is where “Runners On A Mission” comes in.

Team Logan/Runners On A Mission have teamed up with Dr. Francis Xavier Dimalanta, a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician here in the Philippines. He is the President of Cerebral Palsy Philippines Inc. and started his own therapy center in 2003 called “A Child’s D.R.E.A.M. Foundation” in his hometown of Baguio City.

Dr. Dimalanta’s desire to help children is deep as he has spent years of his life sharing with and encouraging parents and children who are in desperate need of his help.

Photo credit to Craig Logan