In just days, a San Diego man will begin a 700-mile run across the state of California for a charity that is close to his heart.

Some may embrace this story as one of hope and determination. Others may think it sounds crazy. If you find yourself in the latter, you’re not alone.

“I said ’You’re out of your mind, please don’t do that,’” Diane Nares told NBC 7 San Diego, recalling the moment her husband, Richard, announced his plans.

Richard Nares has challenged himself to run 700 miles starting in San Francisco and running about 30 miles a day for almost a month until he gets to Rady Children’s hospital in San Diego.

The run will begin Saturday, May 4 in honor of the Emilio Nares Foundation. He hopes to raise $75,000 through donations. Click for a map

Richard has run 200 miles in years past to raise money for the non-profit founded two years after their son’s death.

“The great love of our life. He was amazing. He was diagnosed with leukemia when he was 3 years old and he passed away just before his 6th birthday and he brought his so much joy,” explained Diane.

The foundation provides support to families dealing with childhood leukemia and cancer

“When you go through that no one can really understand it but once you go through it, you’re a part of that club that no one wants to belong to,” said Richard.

Richard and Diane Nares say what seems like a big challenge, is really nothing compared to what those they are helping go through.

“If he can just run and get through it like they got through their treatments, he can keep going,” said Diane.

“That’s my primary inspiration,” Richard said. “That is motivation is to think about all the kids that we work with every day but as parents I think about the moms and dads too because we were one of those.”

For more information on the run and how you can help the project, check out the foundation’s website.