Miles for Mom: Georgia lawmaker plans half-marathon runs in all 50 states to honor his mother

Georgia state Rep. Omari Crawford is running a half-marathon in each U.S. state as part of a project called "Miles for Mom" to honor his mother, who died after a battle with breast cancer; he has completed 12 states and plans to finish all 50 within four years.

Georgia state Rep. Omari Crawford is running a half-marathon in every U.S. state in a project he calls "Miles for Mom." The effort honors his mother, who died after a battle with breast cancer. Crawford returned to his childhood home in Decatur on what would have been her birthday and spoke about how she encouraged him to return to running. He said the discipline he learned as a student-athlete at Florida A&M University helps shape both his public work and his approach to the runs. Key facts: - The project is called "Miles for Mom" and aims to complete a half-marathon in all 50 states. - Crawford's mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and passed away; he said goodbye to her on Jan. 10 and noted her birthday was Feb. 11. - He has completed 12 states so far and plans to finish all 50 within four years, saving Georgia for last. - Some runs connect with local YMCAs, inspired by the walks his parents took at the East Lake YMCA during his mother's treatment. Summary: Crawford describes the runs as a way to carry his mother's legacy forward and to highlight health and community connections. He balances the mission with his legislative duties and says grief still affects him at times. He plans to continue traveling and running over the next four years, culminating in a larger community event in Georgia.