Mooresville’s own Gabe Barjas recently took on an extraordinary challenge, walking 55 miles in 24 hours on a treadmill at Planet Fitness. From 6 a.m. on October 6 to 6 a.m. on October 7, Gabe kept moving nonstop, raising more than $2,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in memory of his close friend Jacob Venditti.
Jacob, who lived with cystic fibrosis, inspired everyone around him with his fearless approach to life. Even with just 30% lung function, he never let his diagnosis define him. He surfed, skateboarded, and paddleboarded, most notably completing an 80-mile Gulf Stream paddleboard challenge earlier this year, with Gabe right by his side.
When Jacob passed away, Gabe wanted to honor his friend’s motto: “Live Fearlessly.” This treadmill marathon was one way to carry that message forward and help fund research for others living with cystic fibrosis. Gabe’s next adventure, a 30-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail, will continue that mission.
Community members cheered him on throughout his 24-hour walk, some even stepping onto nearby treadmills to join him. Every step Gabe took was for Jacob, for awareness, and for hope, proof that friendship, determination, and love can carry us far beyond the finish line.
Those who wish to support Gabe’s ongoing efforts can visit his fundraising page here: https://fundraise.cff.org/FallHike2025/LiveFearlesslyJV
Photos by Lena Harris / Emerald Phoenix Marketing
