250 Santas Run Through the Streets of Loma Linda

LOMA LINDA>> The weather outside was chilly as 250 Santas of all ages, from toddlers in strollers to seniors, gathered to participate in the 2nd annual Loma Linda University Health 5K Santa Fun Run/Walk/Roll on Sunday, Dec. 11. Each participant was given a Santa running suit to wear during the 5K. After suiting up they were offered fruit and cookies before gathering at the starting line, creating a merry sea of red and white. "It’s truly amazing to see all of the Santas in the crowd today," said Scott Perryman, MBA, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital senior vice president/administrator. "Community and wholeness are pillars of what we do at Loma Linda University Health. We are overwhelmingly excited to be here today to honor the children of our hospital and have some fun while doing it.” Participants were warmed up and ready as Joshua Miller, a member of PossAbilities, signaled the start of the race. Along the 5K route, Loma Linda residents waved their greetings to the Santas. LLUCH overlooks Barton Road, creating a sight for patients who happened to glance out a window during the race. Fifty-three volunteers staffed the registration tables and served as race marshals, and a first aid booth was provided and staffed by PossAbilities. Everyone who participated in both the Holiday Classic on Dec. 4 and the Santa Fun Run received a Christmas tree ornament. The ornament was a red star with the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital logo on one side and the Holiday Classic logo on the other. Helping to fuel the runners, Stater Bros. Markets provided bananas and oranges for participants, and Biscomerica Corporation donated boxes of chocolate chip cookies for the event. Candy canes were donated by Family Dollar. Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities, powered by Quest Diagnostics, is a free community outreach program. PossAbilities’ goal is to offer disabled individuals who were born with or have permanent physical injury, a sense of community, as well as offer activities and practical direction to help them lead an active, fulfilling life.