THE RODS HEROES STORY
In 2007, Brady and Andrea Murray welcomed their son, Nash, and soon learned he had Down syndrome. What initially felt like an unexpected challenge became their greatest blessing. As they embraced life with Nash, they realized that children with Down syndrome bring immense joy, love, and purpose.
In 2011, they were devastated to learn that in many countries, children with disabilities are abandoned at birth, placed in orphanages, and often institutionalized under horrific conditions. Determined to help, they raised funds for an adoption grant that helped place a young boy with Down syndrome into a loving home. That moment sparked a greater mission—Racing for Orphans with Down Syndrome (RODS) was born.
To raise awareness and funds, Brady took on an Ironman triathlon, gaining national attention and inspiring others to join the cause. As the movement grew, RODS Racing secured partnerships with major organizations, bringing together athletes and advocates who raced with a purpose—to unite children with families.
In 2020, the pandemic disrupted international adoptions, forcing RODS Racing to evolve into RODS Heroes. The mission expanded beyond racing to actively advocating for children with Down syndrome in orphanages worldwide. RODS Heroes now works to inspire adoptions, raise awareness, and empower communities to recognize the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome.
RODS Heroes is more than an organization—it’s a movement dedicated to uncovering the superpowers of individuals with Down syndrome. Our vision is to ensure that every child with Down syndrome finds a loving home and a community that embraces their full potential.
OUR MISSION: To uncover the superpowers of individuals with Down syndrome.
We achieve this by:
Showcasing and celebrating their abilities.
Inspiring families to answer the call to adopt.
Empowering communities to support individuals with Down syndrome.
With every race, every adoption, and every story shared, RODS Heroes is changing the world—one superhero at a time.