One Man Can Make a Difference

April 1, 2008 | Homosassa, Florida | Vetting explained

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RUN FOR THE INNOCENT This unprecedented event is underway with one man, Mr. Thomas Bassano, who is running across the United States, coast to coast, from California to Florida. Thomas Bassano was so heart broken over the tragic abduction and murder of 9 year old Jessica Lunsford in March of 2005; he decided to run across the United States in her honor. He desires to inspire others to sponsor him and/or participate along the way to help support organizations that protect the innocence and safety of children. "This is a subject I am passionate about. I have three children 11 yr. old girl, 8 yr. old girl and 7 yr. old boy. My worst fear and biggest nightmare, is to have what has happened to Jessica Lunsford, happen to one of my own. I can not distance myself from this case, and feel sick every time I here the name: John Couey. My children asked me if monsters are real and I said ‘Yes, but they don't have green skin and fangs or even fur or claws. They look like me or grandpa even mom sometimes. They are people we think we know well and who can seem like nice people.' " Thomas has been nominated by several people for the CNN 2008 Hero Awards. You can support Thomas, and his endeavor, by going to http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2008/cnn.heroes/nom/ and nominating Thomas for his efforts. Thomas began his journey in San Diego, California on March 3, 2008. Thomas is now in Texas, and he will be in Louisiana by this Saturday April 6, 2008. Running through the southern tier of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and into Florida's panhandle. He will arrive in Ormond Beach on April 19, 2008 to a celebration hosted by Bruce Rossmeyer's Harley Davidson in Ormond Beach, Florida. He will then continue his homecoming celebration on April 20, 2008 in Homosassa, Florida (Jessie's resting place) at the Crystal River Harley Davidson in Citrus County. You can view more information regarding Thomas's run and track his progress at http://www.runfortheinnocent.com/. Thomas can be contacted via cell at 352-400-4716

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