True Athlete

The 18 year old Shane Lauer, suffers from Duchenne Muscular Distrophy (DMD), a degenerative disease that affects the muscles throughout the body. The story of Shane Lauer's life, is one that is truly inspirational. Knowing that the life expectancy of DMD is to the mid-twenties, Shane's legal guardians, Ben and Carissa Mortenson believe every child should live a life to its fullest. Founder and director of Athletes Serving Athletes (ASA), David Slomkowski knew Shane had it in him to compete in a race. It was a 4 mile run that Shane ran with Ben Mortenson and said,

"Shane was so competitive ... he's losing control of his hands, but somehow he holds these straps for two hours so I won't have to stop." Mortenson recalled that Shane wore the finishers' medal every day for a month.

During the 2009 Baltimore Marathon, coming in at 3 hours and 47 minutes, Shane had won the race. Pleased to see the results, Slomkowski agreed that it is Shane would is the athlete,

"Shane has the will of a warrior ... I'm just a piece of equipment. My identity is irrelevant."

A truly captivating story of the young Shane Lauer, who was able to face his disability and reach for his dreams. In the Young Life organization, Capernaum is known for meeting and interacting with extraordinary children such as Shane. It’s a true honor to be able to be-friend them and get the chance to interact with them every week. Shane had this to say after he had won his race,

"It's important to trust those who want to help you," said Shane. "Despite my disability, God has given me the ability to race and be competitive."

Just like Shane, it’s important for all of us to strive for the best and overcome our own problems that hold us back.