The 2012 Amy Thompson Run Honorees

AMY THOMPSON
Amy began Halloween night, 1986, similar to many other 23-year-olds. She was pretty, bright, funny with a contagious laugh, a loyal and inclusive friend, accomplished runner, tennis player and pianist. A Chi Omega, she had recently graduated from KU and was thrilled to teach her first class of third graders. The sixth child of 11 in a large and very close family, Amy offered so much potential and desire to improve the world. By 10 p.m. that Halloween night, nearly everything had changed. In the company of three friends, Amy was twice shot in the head in an attempted robbery as she left a neighborhood party.

Against tremendous odds, she survived major surgeries and a six-week coma. For more than three years, Amy fought the battle of living life after a brain injury. She approached each day with perseverance and faith, and her spirit gave hope and inspiration to all. Despite her injuries, Amy did use her short life to complete her mission and improve the world. In the worst of circumstances, she was an example of courage and forgiveness.

Amy died unexpectedly on Christmas night, 1989, at the age of 26. On Memorial Day 1988, Amy's friends, led by Molly Scanlon, organized the first run. Since then, the Run in Amy's memory has raised more than $1.5 million to help all people with brain injuries.

LARRY MOORE
In his 23rd year as honorary chairperson of the Amy Thompson Run for Brain Injury, Larry Moore has played a key role in the growth of this event. Larry Moore anchors the award-winning 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. news on KMBC-Channel 9.