photo/Jerry Coli

Registration Open for 2016 Moms’ Run Benefiting Postpartum Support Charleston

On Mother’s Day weekend, honor moms everywhere by supporting a cause that helps women and their families suffering from postpartum mood disorders. Postpartum Support Charleston is hosting the 13th annual Moms’ Run + Family Fun Day at 7:00 a.m. Saturday, May 7 at MUSC Health Stadium (formerly Blackbaud Stadium) on Daniel Island.

Participants and their families can arrive at 7 a.m. for pre-race Family Fun Day festivities. At 8 a.m., runners and walkers can join the 5K run/walk starting at MUSC Health Stadium, continuing along Daniel Island Drive, Fairchild Street, and ending back at the stadium for Family Fun Day. This is a new certified course route for 2016. In 2015, almost 700 people registered for the race.

The annual Moms’ Run, presented by Trident Health, is Postpartum Support Charleston’s largest fundraiser, allowing the organization to further its mission of educating, supporting and healing women suffering from postpartum mood disorders, such as postpartum depression and anxiety. Postpartum Support Charleston offers support for women going through PPD and their families as well as community resources and education plus grants for women who may need financial assistance getting treatment for postpartum depression.

A Family Fun Day and awards ceremony will follow the race. Participants can enjoy music, free food and plenty of children’s activities, including a jump castle, face painting, crafts and games. Family Fun Day is included in race registration.

More than 20 percent of new moms will experience postpartum depression in the first year after the birth of a baby. Symptoms include: feelings of anger or irritability; lack of interest in the baby; appetite and sleep disturbance; crying and sadness; feelings of guilt, shame or hopelessness; loss of interest, joy or pleasure in things you used to enjoy; and possible thoughts of harming the baby or yourself.

“So many new moms suffer in silence from this all too common illness. Postpartum depression can feel very isolating and often women feel a lot of guilt and shame. This can make it difficult to reach out for help,” said Elaine DeaKyne, PPD survivor and board president for Postpartum Support Charleston.

“We want mothers to know that they are not alone, and so we encourage them to come out to this event,” DeaKyne added. “Bring your family and friends and be a part of this amazing event that celebrates all moms.”

Race registration is $25; $30 for stroller registration (includes child T-shirt); $15 for children 10 and under. Those who register by April 19 will receive a T-shirt, printed bib and race bag. Prices increase $5 on April 27. Discounts are available for teams of 20 or more; email momsrun@ppdsupport.org. Or support the cause as a non-runner/walker for $25.

For more information and registration details, visit http://www.ppdsupport.org/events/momsrun/. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available; visit http://www.ppdsupport.org/moms-run-sponsor/ for details or email momsrun@ppdsupport.org.