| Kooskia
group of 17 to participate in Fun Run
You might think it’s remarkable that Bobbie and Bill Shobe, parents of five grown children, would be taking on the  Raspberry
Festival Fun Run at the Monastery of St. Gertrude on August 7. But what
is even more remarkable is that they will have with them all the residents
of their Kooskia care facility that serves individuals with mental disabilities.
The group of 17, representing ages 31 to 74, will be a substantial contingent of the Fun Run which features both 5k and 10k lengths. The eldest, Forest Beckwith, is the team leader and will be wearing a t-shirt with his title “Coach” on the day of the run. Bobbie Shobe knows her team is up to the challenge. She and her husband direct a treatment program that emphasizes physical fitness. “We feel strongly that unless they can be healthy physically they can’t be healthy mentally no matter what medicine they are taking,” she says. She notes that improvements to physical health, mental symptoms and self-esteem are immediate and impressive when new residents begin their exercise-rich treatment plan. The residential care facility – which is also the Shobe’s home – features a covered veranda and treadmills so that residents can stick to their walking or running regimen no matter the weather. Each individual sets goals and receives awards upon his or her accomplishments. The group also takes part in online fitness challenges and as many local runs as they can. The Shobes are good role models for those in their care. Bobbie is training for a marathon and has a goal of running 50 miles at the age of 60. Her husband, Bill, just started running this year and has already completed 5k and 10k runs. For two particular members of the group, it will be an extra special day: Deborah Conrad, age 50, will be doing her first 10K and Shawn Soward, age 47, will run her first 5K. “They are so excited,” says Bobbie. “They are my inspiration.” To join the Kooskia runners at the Raspberry Festival Fun Run, call 208-962-5053 or visit www.MyRaspberryFestival.org.  |
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