Portune recognized for walk

He may be sweaty, but Hamilton County Commissioner Todd Portune on this day was the picture of inspiration. So says Dr. Patrick Maynard, organizer of the Hope & Possibility Run, a 5K (3.1 mile) race May 5 in conjunction with the Flying Pig Marathon.

Here's what the group had to say:

Todd heard about the Hope & Possibility Run last November and immediately got involved to make the run a reality for Cincinnati. Todd has experienced first-hand what it means to have a disability, what it means to not let your disability define your life and how important events that promote inclusion are for Cincinnati. So, he not only helped organize and promote the event but he also challenged himself to complete his first organized run since his surgery.

Maynard thanked Portune Wednesday for his participation and gave the commissioner a plaque and a framed photo of from the race.

"Look at the eyes and you'll see the dedication," Maynard said, referring to the photo.

"Look at the sweat!" Portune exclaimed. Then on a more serious note: "It’s a fun, wonderful event. I was happy to play a small role in it. I hadn’t traveled that far on my own power since I was paralyzed four years ago. The event is all about people not being limited, but gearing up with hope that something can be done."

"Now we'll hide that picture!" he added.

Sorry Todd.