Projo Running Blog

From Crossroads Rhode Island, the story of one man's quest to run Sunday's Cox Providence Rhode Race:

Once homeless, marathon man hopes to raise $5,000 for Crossroads

On July 17th, 2001 Chris Geagon hit bottom in his life from drinking and drugging -- he ended up in the ACI after breaking a restraining order. Chris was a functioning alcoholic since his college days in the late 1980s. Upon being released from jail 3 weeks later he recalled, "walking over the Washington Street Bridge thinking I have nothing left in my life accept me, my car, and $200 in the bank." He had lost his job, his son, and didn't have anywhere to go. He was homeless. Like many people, Chris never thought it would ever happen to him. At that point, he re-committed himself to getting his life together.

Many years later, Chris has become a wonderful husband, a great dad and step-dad. He owns his own fitness/personal training business, owns two properties, and feels he is now a role model to others on living a successful life. He has been sober for over 7 years and shares his story with people hoping to help them change their lives.

For the last three months, Chris has taken on a new challenge - training for a 26 mile marathon! He plans to run the Cox Rhode Race in Providence, RI on Sunday, May 4th. Chris says, "This run means a lot to me because it is another accomplishment in my life that is positive and it's not just about me!! I'm raising awareness that being homeless can happen to anybody. It's time for me to really give back to the people who need this so much." As Chris trains, he is raising not just awareness, but money for Crossroads Rhode Island, the state's largest provider of services to the homeless. Chris contacted the Alan Shawn Feinstein Foundation and they will match every dollar he raises before May 1. His goal is to raise $5,000 for Crossroads, which will include the Feinstein matching funds. He is almost half-way there.

To contribute towards Chris's goal, go to the Crossroads Rhode Island web site and click on the "Donate Now" link.

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