Learn about R4R’s patient advocacy work
Our partners at Runnin’ for Research (R4R) pursue a mission near and dear to our hearts: improving the quality of life for those who live with migraine and other headache disorders. In addition to hosting annual fundraising events to support quality research into the causes of and treatments for these disabling illnesses, they also work to promote and facilitate patient empowerment, community awareness and advocacy. As one of the American Migraine Foundation partners, we want to share a little more about what makes this organization so special.
The nonprofit was founded in 2015 by headache specialist and migraine patient Dr. David Watson, who considers the organization’s success one of the crowning achievements of his career. In addition to managing and overseeing R4R, Dr. Watson currently serves as the Chair and Associate Professor of Neurology at the West Virginia University School of Medicine.
Last year alone, R4R raised over $100,000 for migraine advocacy organizations, such as the American Migraine Foundation, Migraine Research Foundation and American Brain Foundation. Their events have cumulatively raised over $250,000 since the organization’s launch.
Headquartered in West Virginia, R4R is best known for hosting 5K runs and walks all over the nation. Because administrative expenses are covered by corporate sponsors, 100% of donations go directly in support of the mission. Besides West Virginia, race locations have thus far included include Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky and Colorado. In the future, the nonprofit hopes to expand its network of volunteers and eventually have a nationwide presence.
Additionally, R4R leads lobbying initiatives in Washington D.C. and sponsors advocacy awards for healthcare professionals who are American Headache Society members. Recipients receive travel scholarships to attend an AHS meeting of their choice, where leading experts in the field of migraine gather to discuss ongoing research and cutting-edge advancements.
We would like to thank Runnin’ for Research for their dedication to supporting migraine research and the larger migraine community. For both patients and physicians alike, their advocacy work has been inspirational. We are immensely grateful for their partnership and support. Together, we are as relentless as migraine.
