Murad Teams Up With Operation Progress

Murad is proud to be the exclusive skincare sponsor of the 2010 Race Across America (RAAM) and an official sponsor to RAAM Team Operation Progress. The team will be led by Kristina Ripatti, a retired Los Angeles police officer.

This grueling, 3,000-mile bike race, kicking off June 12, has been called “the world’s toughest endurance event.” It’s a huge accomplishment for any participant, but for Kristina this race has special meaning. A 10-year police veteran, she worked the gang detail in one of the roughest neighborhoods in Los Angeles until she was gunned down by a robber four years ago. Now paralyzed from the chest down, Kristina will complete the race from California to Maryland on a hand-bike, raising funds for Operation Progress along the way.

It’s a cause that’s close to Kristina’s heart. Operation Progress is an LAPD-based program that awards scholarships to young people in gang-infested neighborhoods, encouraging them to attend college and seek out better opportunities. “I know we can’t solve the gang problem,” Ripatti said. “But I can do my part. If we push ourselves, we’re setting an example. We’re saying to these kids, when you’re faced with challenges you can get through it.”

“We are proud to support Team Operation Progress and Kristina throughout the Race Across America,” said Dr. Murad. “Kristina is an inspiration, not only to our company, but to the youth of Southern California who aspire for higher education and the promise of a better future.”

In addition to sponsoring Team Operation Progress with vital materials for the team and crew, Murad is also providing Ripatti and her teammates with products to help protect their skin from the elements as they ride across the country.