FOR most people, birthdays are about cake, parties, and maybe a few gifts. But for Ricardo Bedward, his birthday has become a yearly opportunity to give back through charitable donations for causes close to his heart.

On April 13, Bedward laced up, putting his body on the line for a birthday lapathon, affectionately dubbed “Make the Fat Man Run”.

Every $3,000 donated earned donors a lap from Ricardo around the field at the Corporate Area-based Campion College — in support of the Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation (JDSF).

What started in 2019 as a personal vow to give back has evolved into a touching tradition.

“After my daughter overcame cancer at just two years old, it completely shifted how I viewed life and blessings,” said Bedward.

“Being blessed isn’t about money — it’s about being able to use what you have to help others.”

Each year, Bedward quietly donates time, funds, and effort to uplift those in need. Past birthday acts include providing hundreds of shoes and clothing items to Glenhope Nursery, purchasing an entire crop from a local farmer to feed the elderly during the pandemic, and donating tech tools for online learning.

Even when in the United States last year, he sponsored meals for homeless individuals in Kansas City.

But this year’s effort holds particular meaning. “I’ve watched my friend Reshima’s sister Kristina grow and thrive with Down’s Syndrome. That made me start paying attention to how many families are quietly navigating this journey,” Bedward explained.

“JDSF operates the same way the hospital that saved my daughter did — completely through public donations and volunteers. That kind of heart deserves support,” he added.

This is the first year Bedward has sought donations from the public.

“I usually fund these things out of pocket, but this time I’m asking for help — not for me, but for the kids and families who benefit from the foundation’s work,” declared Bedward.

Supporters were asked to donate ahead of Bedward’s April 13 birthday, on which he went live on social media, running each lap earned in real time.

“This isn’t just about running. It’s about showing my kids — and anyone watching — that birthdays can be about giving, not getting. And if I have to run until I drop to prove that, so be it,” Bedward said.

Surf and Turf Catering was among the corporate donors to support the initiative — sending Bedward sprinting ahead for JDSF.

So far, Make the Fat Man Run has raised $263,000 for the cause. While Bedward is done with his birthday laps, the public may continue to support by making donations directly to JDSF which provides essential medical services, therapeutic intervention, and special education for people with Down’s Syndrome, relying solely on charitable contributions to operate.

Down’s Syndrome is a genetic condition where a person is born with an extra chromosome. This can affect how their brain and body develop. People diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome can lead healthy lives with supportive care.