North Pole to Chappaqua to South Pole: Pat Farmer's Inspiring Run By Alice Levine
June 21, 2011 Australian Pat Farmer, who is running from the North Pole to the South Pole to try to raise $100 million for the International Red Cross, streamed through Chappaqua this week. Needing relief from pain, he sought out Dr. Robert Silverman, a White Plains-based sports chiropractor and nutrition specialist with over 10 years experience.
Farmer, 49, who served 8 years in Australia’s Parliament, and has raised millions of dollars for causes including Lifeline, Cancer Council and Diabetes Australia. His current marathon, which began April 2, consists of running about 54 miles a day, a feat which is both grueling and physically demanding.
Dr. Silverman was inspired by Farmer’s story and offered his services at no cost. “One of the treatments that often helps runners is Active Release Technique® (ART® ), which breaks up muscle adhesions and helps relieve pain. I’ve used this technique with Pat and I’ve also recommended nutritional supplements to restore his electrolyte balance. When you’re running over 50 miles every day, your body is under a lot of stress. I’m amazed by Pat’s level of commitment and his altruism; I am happy to help him in any way I can,” said Dr. Silverman. He added that he was especially impressed by one of Farmers’ running accomplishments. “Pat was the first person to run 24 hours vertically, climbing both up and down Sydney’s AMP Tower, a pretty amazing feat,” added Dr. Silverman. That run was equivalent to running up Mount Everest in 24 hours!
Farmer has two goals he is striving to accomplish with his Pole to Pole Run, he says. “I want to raise everyone’s awareness of the importance of supporting the Red Cross and all charities, and of course, encourage people to be as generous as possible. Mother Nature has been particularly destructive this year, with tornadoes and hurricanes. The Red Cross is always there to help people through crises and the role it plays in communities throughout the world is essential.”
The North Castle Citizen Corps Council (NC4), whose members receive training from the American Red Cross to provide shelter and other essential services if an emergency should arise, is familiar with Farmer’s contribution to the Red Cross and his long list of accomplishments.
Farmer ran through Central Park with the Champion System Cyclists and runners from the New York City Fire Department. His day in the city concluded with an honorary celebration at the Australian Consulate, and most importantly, another session with Dr. Silverman! Farmer’s personal goal is to complete the marathon to the South Pole by December 6, 2011.
Please visit poletopolerun.com to make a contribution to the Red Cross. As Farmer expressed, “Every donation, regardless of the amount, puts us closer to the 100 million dollar goal.”
