x
Breaking News
More () »

Cupid's Undie Run funds research for rare genetic disorder

The Cupid's Undie Run is all about finding a cure for a rare genetic disorder. Neurofibromatosis is a term for three genetic disorders that can cause tumors to grow on the nerves throughout the body. It can lead to deafness, blindness and it can be deadly. There is no cure.

This weekend, people are stripping down to their skivvies to make a mile-long dash through uptown.

The Cupid's Undie Run is all about finding a cure for a rare genetic disorder. It’s a disorder McKinnon Galloway knows all too well.

On her 16th birthday, McKinnon went to the doctor to check for a concussion after a volleyball injury. She ended up with a diagnosis that would change her life: neurofibromatosis. McKinnon had two brain tumors.

“The most shocking part was they came in and said ‘you’re going to lose your hearing by the time you graduate high school,’” McKinnon told NBC Charlotte.

Neurofibromatosis is a term for three genetic disorders that can cause tumors to grow on the nerves throughout the body. It can lead to deafness, blindness and it can be deadly. There is no cure.

“When you're diagnosed when you're 16 years old and told that this is going to be your life, it's chronic and we don't have a cure, you're really scared,” McKinnon said.

Now at 25, McKinnon has gone through two brain surgeries and chemotherapy off and on for the past nine years. She's found passion in advocacy as she works to raise awareness.

While it's a serious subject, McKinnon prefers to tackle it with a fiery smile. That's why she's been a part of the Cupid's Undie Run for three years.

“100 percent of the proceeds go to benefit Children's Tumor Foundation,” said race director Harel Howze.

Howze got involved after a friend's daughter was diagnosed with NF. The Children's Tumor Foundation is a nonprofit. It's dedicated to research, education, advocacy, patient care and ultimately ending NF.

“This research and these new medicines, it gives families hope,” McKinnon said. But for her, it's not just hope. It's meant defying expectations.

“I still have my hearing because of research. Which is amazing. I have spinal tumors, but I can walk because of research. I can see because of research. I can have a normal life because of research.”

The Cupid’s Undie Run is Saturday, February 17 from noon to four at Whiskey River. Click here for information on how to take part or how to help out.

Before You Leave, Check This Out