JJ Nitro

A special girl, special needs, a special goal.

This is 3-year-old Valarie Dunne.  She was born with Aicardi's Syndrome, a rare birth defect affecting only 300-500 girls in the world. She has many special needs, creating many special expenses.  But the time and attention given by her family and neighbors have helped her progress more than expected.  As she grows, so do her needs. 

Shawn Cooper is running for Valarie.  He will join a handful of other runners participating in The North Face Endurance Challenge on September 6, 2008.  He'll run a 50 kilometers (31.1 miles) "ultra-marathon" on technically challenging trails just outside Washington D.C.  In a race like this, the goal is not to win, but to finish. It's about achieving what seems impossible. Just like Valarie's life. 

Follow the links below for more information

How to donate.

What is Aicardi's Syndrome?

Valarie's story.

About Shawn's run.

Our generous local and national sponsors.

Bid on Dean Karnaze's autographed commemorative running shoe.

Valarie's Online Journal

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