Over the years the Buchanan family and Unified Life have supported running events either by participating, sponsoring, organizing, or volunteering.  They do so because running (or walking) is a proven way to reduce the risk for developing many diseases, particularly heart disease, and because running events can be excellent vehicles for (1) educating the public about the benefits of regular exercise, and (2) motivating people to stick to a regular exercise program.

Women, especially, need to hear about the benefits of regular exercise for lowering the risk of certain diseases. Heart disease is the #1 cause of death among American women. Overweight women are 60% more likely to die from breast cancer. Lack of exercise is also known to be a primary factor in developing osteoporosis.

Unified Life will Sponsor the Fifth Annual Kansas City Express Mother's Day 5K (MD5K) at the Platinum Level in 2009. The race will be held on May 10. Last year, as in every year since it began, the MD5K had a phenomenal increase in participation; up 37% compared to a normal increase of 5 % per year. It will probably top the 3,000 mark this year, with girls and women of all ages, sizes and fitness levels participating.

Kansas City Express is a women's running club that has been active in Kansas City for nearly 30 years. The primary purpose of the group is to improve women’s lives through running or walking --- whether their goal is recreation, health and fitness, or competition.  They have not only sponsored their own races, but they are present at almost every running event in Kansas City, either as participants, or as volunteers.  Kansas City Express is an all-volunteer organization. Theirs is truly a labor of love.

For more information about the KCE Mother's Day 5K Run/Walk for Women and the six-week training program go to http://www.mothersdayrun.com.