As One Foundation’s Darling Dash 5K

The ninth annual As One Foundation’s Darling Dash 5K takes place Sun., Feb. 24 at Stude Park starting at 8 a.m. The As One Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by retired NFL star Devard Darling. For the third year, the UT Physicians Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center is the presenting sponsor of the event. 

A former wide receiver for the NFL, Darling founded As One Foundation in memory of his identical twin brother, Devaughn, whose death was related to sickle cell trait. The 2019 Darling Dash marks the anniversary of Devaughn Darling’s death at 18 years of age due to exhaustion and dehydration during football practice. Both Darling brothers carry the sickle cell trait, which can be fatal when paired with physical rigor and lack of hydration.

According to the American Football Coaches Association, sickle cell trait-related deaths lead the causes of death for collegiate football players. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates 100,000 Americans have sickle cell disease. The CDC states people with sickle cell disease have less access to comprehensive care than people with genetic disorders such as hemophilia and cystic fibrosis.

The dash will fund As One Foundation’s Operation Hydration. The training program educates student athletes, coaches, and staff about the correlation between sickle cell attacks and poor hydration. Proceeds will also go to the foundation’s scholarship program. 

Registration is open through race day. See online registration here.