Nephlete, Steve Shatkin, Finishes LA Marathon

Nephlete, Steve Shatkin, Finishes LA Marathon in Honor of Andrew Stubblefield

Steve Shatkin, a Nephlete, ran the LA Marathon on March 7 in honor of Andrew Stubblefield, raising $2,667 for The NephCure Foundation.

Shatkin, who ran the marathon as a member of NephCure’s Nephlete program, finished with a time of 6 hours, 29 minutes, 30 seconds despite suffering from hypothermia due to rainy conditions.  The marathon started at Dodge Stadium with the finish line over 26 miles away in Santa Monica.  Thousands were in attendance, including Shatkin who ran in honor of to his nephew, Andrew, who suffers from Nephrotic Syndrome.  The marathon proved to be the most difficult Shatkin had ever completed.

The first few miles were dry and ideal running conditions, but as they approached the seventh mile the rain began to affect the runners.  The conditions were causing hypothermia in the runners, many of them having to be treated at the end of the marathon .  In an attempt to keep dry and warm Shatkin used a metallic blanket to cover his head, shoulders, and chest.  Steve sent constant text and picture updates to his wife, Tracie, who was waiting at the finish line.

“I finished and didn't give up, just like my nephew Andrew who doesn't give up either,” said Shatkin.  “So, from the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank everyone who supported my fundraising efforts in donations and in spirit.  A special thank you to my wife Tracie who trained with me until she got injured, and never stopped her love and support, and who has always encouraged me to reach my goals. And of course to my nephew Andrew.  One of the most courageous and selfless kids I know.”