A Facebook campaign to run in honor of a Virginia marathoner who was killed last Monday has more than 56,000 participants, and sales of commemorative apparel have raised more than $16,000.

On Monday morning, Meg Cross Menzies, 34, of Ashland, Virginia, was struck by a car and killed while she was running. The driver of the vehicle, Dr. Michael Carlson, recorded a blood-alcohol content of .11 after the incident; the legal limit is .08. Carlson has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and driving under the influence.

The Facebook event, Meg's Miles, asks that on Saturday, January 18, "no matter what your distance, no matter where you live, run for Meg. Take in the fresh air, be aware of your surroundings, keep your headphones on low, feel the heaviness in your lungs, the soreness in your legs, and be grateful for it--for all of it. The sweat, the pain, the wind, the cold…everything. Be grateful for that moment."

Organizers say the event is also to raise awareness about drunk driving, driving and texting, and runner and cyclist safety.

As of this writing, more than 56,000 people have promised to dedicate that day's miles to Menzies.

Sales of tee shirts and sweatshirts honoring Menzies have reached more than $16,000, with all money raised pledged to Menzies' husband and their three children.

Menzies was a member of the Richmond Road Runners Club and a top local runner. She was training for April's Boston Marathon, which she qualified for by running 3:05:49 at the 2012 Philadelphia Marathon. Menzies ran 3:05:29 at the 2011 Richmond Marathon.

Scott Douglas Scott is a veteran running, fitness, and health journalist who has held senior editorial positions at Runner’s World and Running Times.

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