I decided to fundraise for Shatterproof after my brother, James Kaplan, died from addiction in November of 2015. I had to do something to prevent additional families from experiencing the devastation of substance use. From the beginning of my brother’s addiction, until the end, my family endured more pain than I would ever want another family to feel.

Several months after he passed away, I began looking at different charities focused on substance use. When I came across Shatterproof, I immediately felt a connection to Gary and his story of losing his son. I wanted to be part of the mission. Then I lost a close friend to addiction. At that point, I knew I had to snap into action. I went to Shatterproof’s website and signed up for everything! I had no idea what I was doing, but I had to start somewhere.

So in 2017, I joined Shatterproof’s Rise Up Against Addiction 5K Walk/Run committee. I became the secretary to the committee and I have raised over $5,500. Last year, my team, J.R. Kapo (named after my brother), won the Team Recruitment Week for the New York 5K Walk/Run for recruiting the most team members. That meant even more people were able to raise funds to shatter addiction.

This year, Team J.R. Kapo will be back to participate in the Shatterproof 5K Walk/Run and fundraise for the organization. I am looking forward to the experience again!

Fundraising for the 5K has been exceptional. I am so happy with my progress and look forward to more events with Shatterproof. Having the opportunity to fundraise and be part of the Shatterproof 5K has been an incredible blessing.

Shatterproof’s mission means so much to me. I want families and people affected by this disease to find peace. I want to end addiction and I hope you do, too.

Register for a Shatterproof Rise up Against Addiction 5K Walk/Run near you.