Maddie's Miles

Maddie’s Miles 5K Still in the Game Maddie's Miles 5K Memorial Run/Walk Join us for a powerful celebration of life, hope, and community at this year's Maddie's Miles 5K Memorial Run/Walk, honoring the memory of Madison "Maddie" Marini. Our theme, "Still in the Game", celebrates Maddie's passion for sports and embodies a profound message of resilience. For Maddie, sports were about excitement, teamwork, and heart—and these same qualities fuel our mission to support those affected by addiction and recovery. Every step we take represents more than a run. It's a powerful statement of hope, a commitment to support those struggling, and a tribute to lives lost and lives in recovery. When you participate, you're not just running a race—you're joining a movement of compassion and strength. Special Guest: Ruff Love Rescue will be joining us! This organization, dear to Maddie's heart, will be on-site with adorable adoptable dogs who might just be your perfect running buddy. Event Details: Location: Jamison Park, Winston-SalemCourse: Out and back on Muddy Creek GreenwayHighlights: Auction items, prizes, and food! Together, we run to show that hope is always in the game. Presenting Sponsor Morrow, Vermitsky, Costello Law, PLLCAttorneys at LawProudly Serving Winston-Salem Since 1987 3890 Vest Mill RoadWinston-Salem, NC 27103Phone: 336-265-6203 Visit us at: www.mvclawgroup.com Why We Need Your Support Every year, over 100,000 lives are lost to drug overdoses in the United States—a heartbreaking statistic that represents not just numbers, but beloved family members, cherished friends, and valued community members. Behind each statistic is a personal story of struggle, pain, and potential cut tragically short. The opioid crisis continues to devastate communities across the nation, affecting individuals from all walks of life. While increased funding for treatment, prevention, and harm reduction strategies like naloxone distribution have made some impact, the persistent high rate of overdose deaths underscores the urgent need for comprehensive, compassionate, and sustained intervention. We cannot afford to wait. Together, we can make a difference—supporting research, treatment, education, and prevention to save lives and help those battling addiction find hope and healing. Maddie My beloved daughter Madison "Maddie" Marini battled addiction with remarkable courage. Her dreams of becoming a forensic anthropologist—inspired by her favorite TV show character whom her Nana affectionately nicknamed her “Bones” after—reflected her deep compassion and desire to help others find answers and closure. Maddie was extraordinary: vibrant, intelligent, and capable of lighting up any room with her magnetic personality. She possessed an innate ability to connect with people, leaving an unforgettable impression on everyone she met. Her aspirations were bright, her potential limitless. Tragically, the complex challenges of addiction—including limited resources, financial barriers, and persistent societal stigma—ultimately prevented her path to recovery. On December 29th, 2016, at just 22 years old, Maddie's promising life was cut short by an accidental overdose. The profound loss of my daughter has left an indescribable void. Each day, I carry the weight of her absence and the endless love that continues to define our connection. Where the Money Goes When you participate in Maddie's Miles, you're doing more than running or walking—you're creating hope. Every dollar raised supports Phoenix Rising of Winston Salem, Inc., a dedicated non-profit working to break the cycle of addiction through innovative drug court programs. Your contribution helps local organizations prevent substance abuse, save lives, and provide critical support to individuals and families struggling with addiction. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in our community. Learn more about Phoenix Rising and their vital work at phoenixrisingwinstonsalem.org. All-Weather Adventure Join us for an unforgettable experience that continues no matter what Mother Nature has in store! T-Shirt Option: Can't join the event but want a Maddie's Miles T-shirt? You can still support our cause! Make a minimum donation of $25 and email your t-shirt size to scoopy9935@aol.com. In Loving Memory of Madison "Maddie" Marini "She is clothed with Strength & Dignity and Laughs without Fear of the Future" Proverbs 31:25