General News

A Message from Sean Byram

The first question would be why would Sean Byram ever run a half marathon, is he insane?

For those of you that know me well, the answer to that was easy. To understand the full reason I am running this race begins on June 26th 2009. Other than this date being my 5th year wedding anniversary, it will also be remembered as the day I fractured my C1 vertebrate in a swimming accident on vacation in Mexico.

I have gone 30 years with never breaking a bone in my body, but on this day I managed to break a good one. I had no idea I broke my neck when it happened and doctors from Mexico and the University of Michigan have told me repeatedly how lucky I am to recover fully from my injuries. I am one of the lucky 2% that did not suffer paralysis or death from my stunt.

After 3 months and a long summer in a halo device I began my physical therapy in September. As one can imagine my physical stamina is not where it once was. I need to get back in shape! Which was the first motivator to run the bay shore. The second reason is one that I began to think about when I had a lot of time sitting around and not being allowed to do anything. I was blown away on how many members of my community in Gaylord, Michigan took time to check in on me and my family. The many visits, calls, cards, and care baskets really humbles an individual. I began to think about how I could give back to a community that has cared for me in so many ways…That got me thinking of ways to give back and also accomplish losing this weight I gained.

After talking about many options with my wife we came up with an idea to run a race for charity. Through the help and direction of our local United Way it is now a goal to raise 10,000 dollars to be distributed to local charities. I, my wife Kim, and some fellow teacher friends will be running in the Bayshore Race May of 2010. The Half Marathon is my challenge and I need your help to raise 10,000 dollars for my community. If you would like to make a donation go to:

Click Here to Make a Donation

Alternatively, you can read my “story of overcoming unforeseen obstacles and the perseverance to beat the odds” on the Otsego County United Way web”site by clicking here. Thank you for your support!