Omaha teen set to run across Nebraska, raising money for charity
"Even something as small as running can impact a lot of people"
"Even something as small as running can impact a lot of people"
"Even something as small as running can impact a lot of people"
An Omaha man is lacing up his shoes and hitting the ground running, making a 300-mile journey across Nebraska.
In a few days, Brandon Schutt will run across the state to raise money for several non-profits.
It's no run around the block nor a simple warm-up jog. What Schutt is about to do, is a marathon across the state.
"I think it's one of those things where if you have an idea, just got for it. Initially it was something I was thinking, oh, I'm only going to do this let's say when I graduate college and it'll be like 2026. Then I was like well, I can just do it now," said Schutt.
The 18-year-old UNO student will start his journey near the Nebraska-Colorado border. He'll run 364 miles, pacing himself along Interstate 80 and ending right here in Omaha.
"We got an RV and essentially we're loading it up with a bunch of my friends who also run. Essentially, I'm going to have two friends pacing me the entire time every 10 miles they swap out for another two friends and that's pretty much how we're going to do it," said Schutt.
The goal is to raise $50,000 for four non-profits and the earnings will be evenly split.
The organizations include Make-A-Wish Nebraska, Community Alliance, The Stephen Center and one that's close to his heart, Children's Hospital.
"I had to get surgery on my knees twice so you can actually see the scars. So I kind of remember those days and if it wasn't for Children's Hospital, I wouldn't be running today," said Schutt.
Director of Philanthropy at Children's Hospital & Medical Center Foundation T.J. Isaacs says he's used to seeing donations, but they've never heard of someone literally going the extra mile.
"He's different. He has a goal in mind that I think is crazy to run across the state. But it's so awesome to put yourself through that challenge. It's going to be a mental challenge, it's going to be physical challenge, but there are so many that are going through those challenges day to day that he wants to support," said Isaacs.
Schutt plans to run 40 miles a day, hoping to complete his mission by June 10th.
He said with every breath it's a reminder that each stride serves its purpose.
"Even something as small as running can impact a lot of people," said Schutt.
If you would like to donate, you can visit Brandon's GoFundMe Running Across Nebraska For Charity