His fifth pair of shoes should get him to the ocean. Once Patrick McGlade completes his more than 2,500-mile run, he will have accomplished more than the miles.

Running cross-country, McGlade is raising awareness and funds for juvenile arthritis research.

The 21-year-old athlete has been traveling by foot, toting camping items and supplies in a jogging stroller. But he has only had to camp a few nights.

Many of his nights are spent in hotel rooms donated to him or homes of locals. Communities have opened homes and hearts to McGlade.

Now he asks that people also open their checkbooks.

He has raised more than $17,000, but this is short of his $50,000 goal.

There is still time to add to McGlade’s total.

Since he has already moved through the Selma area, the only help he needs from us now is through donations.

All donations will be accepted until April 23, when McGlade completes his run. Visit http://mysite.verizon.net/res0y1ar/index.html to make a donation.