The Race to End Duchenne team is in The Most Magical Place on Earth this weekend to participate in Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend, presented by State Farm.

Make Every Day Count 

Michael (Mike) Napoli, captain of Team Danny, has been recognized with the Make Every Day Count Award in memory of his nephew, Danny Garofalo. Danny’s mother, Jen Garofalo, surprised Mike and presented him the award during the Team Celebration Dinner on Friday night, adding a special and emotional touch to the event as Team Danny laced up their sneakers for their 18th year running for PPMD.

Team Danny presents the award each year to a member of the Race to End Duchenne team who embodies the spirit that Danny and his family lived by – finding joy in the small, everyday moments, expressing their love and appreciation as much as possible, and making the most of their time together. Mike was an integral part of Danny’s life and his dedication has been a driving force behind Team Danny’s remarkable fundraising efforts, which have resulted in well over $1,000,000 raised over the past 18 years. Congratulations to Mike, this award is so well-deserved!

Racing for Every Future

Our heartfelt congratulations are also in order for Mike Gaglianone and Team Michael James, who received the 2024 Racing for Every Future Team Award in acknowledgement of their 20th year of participation as part of the Race to End Duchenne program.

Team Michael James runs in honor of Michael Gaglianone of Mount Ephraim, NJ. Michael’s father, Mike Gaglianone, has participated in the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend since PPMD formed a team there in 2005, making 2024 his 20th year of racing. Since 2005, Team Michael James has raised well over $1,000,000 in support of PPMD’s mission, not only making a significant impact in the fight to end Duchenne, but also inspiring and embracing the Duchenne community.

Thank you, Mike Napoli, Mike Gaglianone, Team Michael James, and the entire Race to End Duchenne team for your dedication, enthusiasm, and support of PPMD. Together, we are fighting for every future!