Ultramarathoner Jeff McGonnell of Davidson has made Batten’s Disease his cause, after coming to know two boys with the disease. On June 4-5, 2011, he’ll run laps around the Davidson Village Green for 24 hours to raise money and awareness for Batten Disease research. He talked to David Boraks of DavidsonNews.net about the event, which includes live music all day Saturday.

The event, sponsored by the Town of Davidson and BirdNest Music, is called “24 hour Loopy for a Cause.”

The Green is tiny, about 7 laps to a mile. Mr. McGonnell expects to run about 100 miles in the 24 hours. While he runs, there will be live music. Musicians scheduled to play include Billy Jones, Rick Spreitzer, Rusty Knox, Rob McHale and more. There will also be food, games and other fun activities for kids.

McGonnell has been an ultra runner for more than 20 years, competing in more than 150 races longer than a marathon (26.2 miles). For the right donation, this serious runner will run in a dress juggling pineapples and whistling pop tunes. Anyone can join in a few laps of the run for a small donation.

The donations will be going toward Batten Disease research. Batten disease is a genetic neurological disorder that affectes children and adolescents. Children with the disease suffer mental impairment, seizures, and loss of sight and motor skills. As these conditions worsen, the affected children can become blind, bedridden, and unable to communicate. At this point, Batten disease is always fatal and cannot be prevented.

You can find out more about the disease and The Batten Disease Support and Research Association at http://www.bdsra.org.

Come out and share your support from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, June 4 and 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday, June 5. For details and music lineup visit loopy4acause.blogspot.com or call 704-907-6758.