Greenwood Residents Lace Up for Family Support in Genetic Disorder Run
Greenwood, S.C. – If you’re a walker, runner, or simply someone who believes in community support, it’s time to lace up your shoes. You have a chance to make a real difference for families living with genetic disorders right here in the Upstate.
The Greenwood Genetic Center has long been a beacon of hope for families facing the uncertainties of genetic disorders. For parents like Stephen and Jodi Shenal, this center has been a lifeline. Their 14-year-old daughter, Ryleigh, is a testament to the love and specialized care she’s received since birth.
“Ryleigh has the biggest smile and can light up any room,” Jodi Shenal shares. “If everyone in the world loved like Ryleigh did, it would be such a better place.” Stephen echoes this sentiment, describing their unique bond: “Just the non-verbal interaction we have speaks louder than words.”
However, life wasn’t always so clear for the Shenals. “Shortly after she was born, Ryleigh was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder,” Jodi recalls. This disorder, a chromosomal microdeletion, brings with it numerous developmental challenges. “She is nonverbal, has epilepsy, seizures, and intellectual disabilities,” Jodi explains.
Despite these challenges, the care provided by the Greenwood Genetic Center has been transformative. “Just the care that Ryleigh has received has been amazing,” Jodi emphasizes. Under the watchful eye of Dr. Skinner, Ryleigh has grown and thrived in ways they never thought possible. Thanks to exceptional genetic counseling and treatment, Ryleigh is even able to walk with assistance—an incredible achievement given her condition.
Motivated by their gratitude, Stephen and Jodi wanted to give back. Over coffee one day in 2010, they conceived the idea of a 5K run to support the center that had given them so much. Thus, Race the Helix was born. According to Stephen, “We were having coffee one day and we wanted to do something to give back to what Greenwood Genetic Center gave us.”
Race the Helix isn’t just a standard 5K—it’s a lifeline for families in need. All proceeds go to the Greenwood Genetic Center Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research and supporting families who can’t afford care.
“One of the biggest highlights of this is seeing other families come out and just knowing we are a community and are in this together,” Jodi says.
From humble beginnings, the Shenals’ first 5K raised about $3,500. Fast forward to last year, and their efforts amassed over $60,000—a remarkable testament to the event’s growth and the community’s commitment.
In just over a decade, Race the Helix has become more than a run; it’s a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and community. As Ryleigh continues to inspire everyone around her, the Shenals remind us all of the profound impact we can have when we come together.
Details for the next Race the Helix are available here.
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