Project 7X7: 7 Half Marathons. 7 Days. 1 Cause.

From March 7-13, I will run 7 half marathons in 7 days across Dahlonega, Athens, and Augusta to raise money for Alzheimer's research.

Three of the seven days will be public race days, so you can run alongside me. Dates, locations, and costs will be posted once permits and races are finalized.

Why I'm Running

Over the summer of 2026, the world lost one of its kindest, hardest working southern men. My grandpa, Mike Newman, was a man of faith who loved his family more than anything and would give even his last crust of bread.

Grandpa Mike was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2019. In the 19 years I had with him, I saw a life marked by honor, humility, meekness, and a kind of success most people overlook. When I was younger, he often used his lunch breaks to drive wherever he was and take me to Waffle House. Almost every Waffle House employee within 30 miles of Evans, Georgia, knew his order.

He taught me many lessons and how to live with one reoccurring statement: "Can't never could, didn't never try." Whatever the task, he finished it, no matter how long it took.

What Alzheimer's takes

After he passed, I was angry at God. I couldn't understand why He would allow a disease that makes a family watch their loved one's abilities and character fade until even breathing becomes a struggle.

It took months, but I learned that bitterness toward God is like drinking poison and expecting Him to die. I also learned what it means to forgive seventy times seven in a new way, not only to others, but also to myself.

What I'm doing about it

Seven years after his diagnosis, I'm taking what Grandpa Mike stood for and putting it into action: 7 half marathons, 7 days, 1 cause. To raise money for Alzheimer's research for those who are going through the same struggle I have.

How you can help

• Donate to support Alzheimer'ss research. Every dollar counts.
• Share this page with someone who has walked this road.
• Run with me on one of the three public race days

Thank you for helping me finish what my Grandpa has taught me to finish.