Texas church member’s 48-hour, 141.5-mile run raises $13,000 for adoptions

At this point, Ryan Beard is 46 hours into his 48-hour run to raise money for international adoptions.

Ultra-marathoner Ryan Beard and his wife, Ashley, felt a calling this summer to add to their family of four by adopting two children from Ethiopia.
However, the Beards, members of the Westover Hills Church of Christ in Austin, Texas, said they soon learned that international adoptions are extremely expensive and that millions of children around the world desperately need loving homes.
Ryan Beard, who met his wife at Harding University in Searcy, Ark., said he felt that no child should be left in an orphanage because of a lack of upfront funds (typically $25,000 to $30,000).
That was when he decided to run 48 hours to fund 48 adoptions.
Paul Carrozza, owner of Runtex, an Austin-based running store provided the treadmills and his store as a location, and 48 Lives was born.
Ryan started his run at 5 p.m. Friday (Nov. 16) and completed the 48 hours and 141.5 miles at 5 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 18) to a cheering crowd.  So far, he has raised over $13,000. He said he plans to continue this run as a way to fund other adoptions, as long as his legs will carry him.
To learn more about this cause or to see photos and video taken during the run, visit www.48lives.com or www.Facebook.com/48lives.
Hat tip to Sean Palmer to alerting us to this story!

• Feedback
  The Beard’s are a testament to what Christian’s are called to be. Self-lessly giving themselves, their bodies and time to help others. Not only will they bring two children home, but 46 other orphans will also find their forever homes by the effors of www.48lives.com

  Andrew

  November, 20 2012

  “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

  Jeff

  November, 20 2012

  Wonderful! Praise God! May the Lord bless your efforts Ryan and Ashley! As Paul wrote, “I do not run like a man running aimlessly” (I Cor.9:6). Your worthy goal will be realized through His power and love. November is nat’l adoption month. Two wonderful children will be blessed with a loving family and a forever home because of your compassion and care.

  Larry Bertram

  November, 27 2012

  I heard this on KLove this morning. Thanks for sharing this story!

  Rachel

  November, 29 2012