D.P.T. Students Set New Fundraising Record at 25th Annual Race for Rehab
The Students Raised $16,000 to Support Achilles International to Support Athletes with Disabilities
Students from New York Medical College’s (NYMC) Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) Class of 2025 hosted the 25th annual Race for Rehab on October 15. This year’s 5K race was the most successful to date, as students raised more than $16,000 to support Achilles International, a non-profit organization that provides a community of support for athletes with disabilities.
A total of 172 participants – 35 Achilles athletes and 137 individuals- participated in the race around NYMC’s Valhalla campus. An awards ceremony capped off the event, announcing the winners in each category, including Achilles athletes, alumni, as well as male and female finishers in different age categories.
Daisy Alverez, Peter Calicchia and Cristina Santamaria from the D.P.T. Class of 2025 had this to say about the successful event: “This year’s event was truly special because of the unprecedented community turnout. Our team was extremely successful in rallying our community together. The race was driven by the inspiration of the Achilles athletes and their continuous commitment to achieving their potential. They gave us a sense of perspective and gratitude, and their positive mindset to continue to live their lives to the fullest despite their disabilities motivates us to do the same daily. The Race for Rehab holds close to our hearts, empowering athletes with physical disabilities and raising funds for those who lack the resources to participate. Through hard work and dedication, we surpassed our goal, raising $16,030-a surreal achievement.”
“This was the most successful race in its 25-year history. Janet P. Dolot, M.S., D.P.T., Dr.P.H. ’14, PT, OCS, chief and associate professor of the Division of Physical Therapy, and I had the joy of working with an incredibly amazing group of students. The event was special, and the accomplishment of the students was simply amazing,” said Anthony Sozzo, M.A., M.S.Ed., associate dean for student affairs.