Saratoga Sacred Heart School Student Raises Money to Fight Cystic Fibrosis

Saratoga Sacred Heart School student Sam Nash, 10, has raised nearly $30,000 for the Elizabeth Nash Foundation, which fights cystic fibrosis.

The foundation was established in 2004 by Sam's family to honor Sam's late aunt Elizabeth, who died from cystic fibrosis several years ago.

According to Sam's father, Patrick Nash, the fifth-grader decided to start running in June and get monetary pledges for each mile he completed. 

Sam ended up running 30 miles, 10 miles beyond his original 20-mile goal, Patrick Nash said in an email interview.

"We thought this would be small but seemed to grow. We can't believe it, but Sam has raised just short of $30,000 ... $28K-plus to be specific," he said.

In addition to numerous donations by Sam's friends, family members and the Sacred Heart School community in Saratoga, Patrick Nash said the foundation benefited from two generous gifts.

An employee from a local biotech firm donated $6,000.

The other money infusion came from a 1:1 monetary match by the 1440 Foundation, $14,000. The nonprofit had read about Sam's run and found it inspiring, according to dad.

Sacred Heart School Principal Thomas Pulchny has expressed great admiration and pride about Sam's generosity and will to help the Elizabeth Nash Foundation, said school spokeswoman Lupita Inzunza.