Issue link: https://tmcpulse.uberflip.com/i/457465
t m c » p u l s e | j a n / f e b 2 0 1 5 7 which Boudwin's eye-catching, Clutch- costumed run accomplishes. "I think it's a great opportunity for us and a big platform to create awareness about organ donation," said Claudia Sanchez, public relations and multicultural outreach coordinator at LifeGift. "I mean, what better way than to see a giant bear running the marathon?" Running in the Clutch costume is quite a feat. The costume alone weighs about 20 pounds—a burden that only increases as it gets drenched in sweat. Even the simple act of breathing becomes much more difficult while wearing a giant bear head, a bit of irony given that a double lung transplant inspired Boudwin's runs. "You want fresh air, and the exchange of oxygen is not the same as if you weren't wearing the head," said Boudwin. "The mixture is a little bit more your own carbon dioxide." Still, all the physical and mental exertion is worth it to Boudwin if he can help other families going through what he and his family did. The more people who see his message, the larger the It's not just about awareness, it's about taking a step, taking 60 seconds out of your day and going online to register. Not just thinking about it and knowing about it, but actually doing something about it. — ROBERT BOUDWIN Houston Rockets' Clutch donor registry grows. Each person who registers could potentially save multi- ple lives somewhere down the road. "I remember very distinctly think- ing my boys are only three years old. They're not going to remember my dad if he passes now, and I didn't want that to happen," he said. "That's been very special to me, that they get the time with him and they'll always remember him now. A near-death experience and coming out on the other end alive, and alive through the selflessness of some- body else is pretty inspiring." Robert Boudwin begins the 2015 Chevron Houston Half Marathon, the second he's run in his Houston Rockets Clutch costume. Ronald McDonald House Houston staff and volunteers cheer on runners in the Chevron Houston Marathon.