Angeleno Johnny Ray Marks 50th Birthday by Paying It Forward With His “50K for 50 by 50 Fundraiser”

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Oct. 16, 2017 -- To commemorate his milestone birthday next month, Los Angeles resident Johnny Ray wants to give back to as many charities as he can. In addition to his personal goal of completing 50 races by the time he reaches his 50^th, Johnny Ray is trying to raise $50K, 1K per race, to spread across five charities that has directly impacted his amazing life:

Johnny Ray Nelson in front of his numerous racing medals

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9b78a5e0-fb26-4a86-86fb-72637f816bdd

In order to execute the fundraising, Johnny Ray has started a gofundme account https://www.gofundme.com/jrs50by50-a-reward-gift-forward.

“Each charity has a special meaning to me and I’m hopeful that I can help someone else who is struggling and needs an extra hand,” said Johnny Ray.

Here’s a list of the charities and why they are of significance:

1. American Red Cross - EIN: 530196605 www.redcross.org
2. Jewish Family Services of LA - EIN: 951691013 www.jfsla.org

After a 2003 plane crashed into Johnny Ray’s apartment building in the Fairfax District of Los Angeles, five people died and many innocent victims. Johnny Ray fell out of his 3rd story window and sustained multiple breaks to his lower back, wrist and ankle. He was injured and homeless. The American Red Cross provided support, as well as Jewish Family Services, even though he is Christian, and he will forever grateful to both.

3. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - EIN: 13564491 www.lls.org

Johnny Ray has been a massage therapist for nearly 30 years, currently at his private practice Cariño Massage in West Hollywood, and is a favorite among the local community. He has studied a wide range of therapeutic techniques that serve as the foundation for his signature style called “Cariño Massage.” These techniques include Swedish, Deep Tissue, Shiatsu, Sports, Reflexology, Thai, Pre/Post-Natal, Lomi Lomi, Reflexology and Integrated Breathing. He mastered these techniques through many years of his personal and professional experiences and the many hours spent working with chiropractors, physical therapists, geriatric therapists, exclusive spas in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood.

One cherished friendship was forged with one former client of Johnny Ray, an architect, tri-athlete and an incredible human. “In 2011, she impressed my family and friends so mush at my birthday, leaving me to say, "I want her to be my wife one day!"

At the time, Johnny Ray was 364 pounds and she started to delicately encourage him to care for his health by suggesting to perhaps, try running. In 2012, this client was training for her own biggest triathlon challenge and fundraising for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society with a party and silent auction. Johnny Ray arrived not knowing anyone, but this client. “ After greeting her, he checked out the auction items and one was lunch and a walk on the beach with her. The starting bid was $25 with $5 increments. Not being in the best financial position, but wanting to offer his support without hesitation, Johnny Ray placed a $300 bid. As he left that evening he overheard excited wonderment over the high bid, which brought a huge smile to his face.

Unfortunately, a few weeks later, this client was killed in a tragic biking accident while training on PCH in Malibu. Despite being heartbroken, he tried to focus on the inspiration she had given Johnny Ray. As a result, he started running and lost 135 pounds. At his 47th birthday after completing only a few 5K's and then his first Half- Marathon, he set a goal to complete 50 running events by his 50th birthday, next month.

4. Lupus LA - EIN: 461126232 http://lupusla.org/

In honor of a dear friend Nicole, as well as a few wonderful friends surviving & striving, with Lupus.

5. SPCALA EIN: 951738153  www.spcala.com

In 2001, Johnny Ray’s USC graduation gift to himself was a 6 week-old pot bellied pig “Harley.” He had him for 2 years, until his accident and could no longer provide a good home or care for him. Although he never saw him again, Johnny Ray’s beloved swine was rescued and given a wonderful loving permanent home.

For more information please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/jrs50by50-a-reward-gift-forward

#JRs50by50

Contact: Amy Prenner (310) 709-1101