Former Disabled Paramedic Looking For Runners To Participate In 100-Mile Race

A disabled former paramedic has a dream of competing in a 100-mile race in Tulsa and needs the community’s help.

Bonnie Vanderaa cannot run like she used to, so she is counting on others to step in.

Christina Ortega runs with a purpose.

She has pushed someone in a race chair in more than two dozen races through the nonprofit, Ainsley's Angels.

"It really is a very special feeling when you get to help that person cross that line and accomplish a goal that maybe they had for a long time,” said Christina.

Christina became friends with Bonnie through Ainsley's Angels.

Bonnie said she used to be a paramedic and had run many races, including marathons.

"Like when you crossed that finish line, it's just an amazing feeling,” said Bonnie.

Bonnie's life changed forever six and a half years ago.

"My EMT co-worker on the ambulance shot me twice in the head, and then he took a baton stick and beat me over the head with it until the stick broke,” said Bonnie.

Bonnie said it had been a long, hard road to recovery.

While she cannot run anymore, she is still doing lots of races, thanks to volunteers pushing her.

"The Tulsa Run, I was in a chair for the race, and then I got out to walk across the finish line, and I passed out,” said Bonnie while laughing. “I was in my clown outfit, too. It was pretty funny."

Now, Bonnie is getting ready for her longest race yet: The Tulsa Urban Adventure on Sept. 28 and 29th.

Bonnie has started a team to run 100 miles with her, and Christina is in charge of logistics.

"We have one person that will be running all 12 to 13 miles, each group, and then we have other people that may only run three to six miles,” said Christina. “And so, logistically, it's like getting them from place to place."

Bonnie has half the team committed and needs 10 more runners.

She said she is grateful for every step of the 100-mile race.

"I just want to say absolutely thank you to all of them, and I'm just kind of speechless that they're helping,” said Bonnie.

If you'd like to push Bonnie for any distance in the race on Sept. 28 and 29th, email bonnieruns100@gmail.com.