The Cure SMA Foundation of India, a parent-led non-profit organization, successfully hosted the 3rd Edition of Run for SMA on Sunday at the Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad. The event brought together thousands of participants to raise awareness about Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) – a rare and severe genetic disorder that weakens muscles and affects movement, often leading to serious complications such as respiratory failure if left untreated.
Flag-off by Dignitaries
The run was flagged off by Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary to the Government of Telangana. Guests of Honour included Bhavani Sri, Secretary of the National Turmeric Board; Archana Suresh, Director, Telangana Social Impact Group; Dr. Radha Rama Devi, Senior Consultant, Pediatrician & Geneticist at Rainbow Children’s Hospital; and Mayur Patnala, Founder & Global CEO of Nirmaan Organization.
Diverse Participation
The Run for SMA 2025 featured both timed and non-timed categories – 21K, 10K, 5K (timed), and 5K (non-timed). Around 2,500 participants joined the event, including students, corporate employees, medical professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and SMA families. In a historic first, over 2,000 Indian Coast Guard personnel from 42 stations, 5 air stations, and 4 air enclaves participated virtually, covering locations along the Indian coastline, as well as the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. This initiative was part of the Coast Guard Veteran Program.
The Cause Behind the Run
Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a rare genetic condition that affects the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, it can severely impact a child’s ability to walk, eat, or even breathe. In India, awareness about SMA remains low, which delays early intervention and increases the challenges faced by families.
The Run for SMA is not just a sporting event but a movement for change. It highlights the urgent need for early screening, accessible treatment, and a stronger support system for rare disease patients.
Building a Supportive Ecosystem
Speaking at the event, Srilakshmi Nalam, Co-founder and Trustee of Cure SMA India, stressed the importance of collaboration between medical professionals, researchers, corporates, and government bodies. She called for creating a sustainable ecosystem for families living with rare diseases. The event is part of Global SMA Awareness Month, observed every August, which aims to unite communities worldwide in the fight against SMA.
Inspiring Unity for a Noble Cause
The energy at Gachibowli Stadium reflected a shared commitment to making a difference. From professional runners aiming for their best time to families walking together in solidarity, every step taken on Sunday carried a deeper meaning.
The 3rd Edition of Run for SMA stands as a reminder that awareness is the first step toward change. By bringing together diverse sections of society, Cure SMA Foundation of India continues to shine a light on a condition that deserves greater attention and action.
