(Courtesy of Chai Lifeline) More than 450 runners from across the globe came together in Miami to raise funds in support of kids with life-threatening and lifelong illness as part of Team Lifeline, the largest organized team to participate in the February 6 Miami Marathon. Team Lifeline supports Chai Lifeline, the leading Jewish international health support organization that provides medical, social and financial services for children and their families whose lives have been altered by their medical diagnoses.

“Those who join our team are not simply united in the personal goal of crossing the finish line or crossing this off their bucket list,” said Moshe Turk, director of Team Lifeline. “They are a special caliber of people, connected by a sense of dedication and determination to use this experience to help others.”

Team Lifeline participants enjoyed an exciting and inspiring Shabbos weekend, featuring delicious meals, beautiful davening with Kolab Music Group, moving talks and presentations from Chai Lifeline families, and a thrilling pasta party on Saturday night. Within the delegation of runners were numerous recovered patients, family members of sick children and those running in memory of loved ones who have lost their battles with illness.

Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline, saluted the runners and said he takes great pride in the community that comes together in support of Chai Lifeline families: “Each year, we are more and more encouraged by how many choose to come out and train for these physically challenging events. Whether it’s a world-class marathon experience like Team Lifeline or our Bike4Chai and Tour De Simcha bike riders, literally every step that these athletes take is helping a sick child and family, and that is an incredible thing to witness and support.”

To learn more about Team Lifeline, visit www.teamlifeline.org.