Run Around In Your Underwear to Cure Neurofibromatosis

There are worse things to do in the name of Valentine’s Day than run around outside in your underwear for charity.

Cupid’s Undie Runs are happening all over the country in February, raising money for the Children’s Tumor Foundation to find a cure for neurofibromatosis.

Let’s start with the “why” of running around in the winter cold in your underwear. Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a condition where tumors grow in the nervous system, which can result in heart problems, learning difficulties, intense pain, cataracts, hearing loss, and in some cases, cancer. There is no known cure or preventative measure. That’s where you and your skivvies come in.

The Cupid’s Undie Run is a mile (or maybe slightly less depending on your city’s route) run, though there’s absolutely no need to run. Walk, jog, strut, every form of locomotion is welcome, including wheelchairs. Don’t feel like you have to start training now: there are no timers and no winners; medals are only given to top fundraisers. Sadly, it’s not compulsory to wear your underwear: costumes, crazy outfits, and even traditional activewear are all welcome. Dress for the weather though– no one likes a hypothermic person taking the attention away from a charity event.

All money raised, minus 30% that goes to costs, is given to the Children’s Tumor Foundation (CTF), a research-based organization, because Cupid’s Charity started there. Charity Navigator is also a huge fan of CTF, giving them a four star rating for so many years they’re the Meryl Streep of charity awards. Since starting the run in 2010, clinical trials for NF have gone from none to 25.

As of the date of publication, they’ve already raised almost a million dollars this year. To find out when your city’s run/walk/strut in underwear (or really anything) is check their site here and click on “cities.”