Running together and endurance racing are the ties that bind a group of Routt County families and support them through lifelong health struggles of their children who are affected by Angelman syndrome. These “angels” are the smiling, laughing and cheerful children and teens impacted by the rare genetic disorder of Angelman syndrome, which is often mistaken for autism or cerebral palsy. “I can tell you it has been the adventure of my life as well as a truly meaningful experience for Sam,” Granger said. Knott, who has autism, also is working part-time, taking classes at Colorado Mountain College and competing consistently in the Steamboat Springs Running Series. Named after the Routt County town, Hayden McCurdy was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome at 16 months and did not walk until she was three-and-a-half, her mom said.