Running Numbers

A scholarly look at the digits that matter.

by Nick Norlen

Running Numbers gives back. And just in time for tax season.

18 Number of people in the U.S. who die each day awaiting a transplant, according to organizers of the Annual Dash for Organ Donor Awareness, April 20 at the Art Museum. Proceeds go to campaigns to raise awareness about the need for organ and tissue donors and the success of transplants. Call 800-438-5093, ext. 6142, or visit dash2008.kintera.org for registration and donations. Major organs accepted in lieu of checks.

44 Number of books I bought for $28 at this year's Bryn Mawr-Wellesley Book Sale, the annual fundraiser for scholarships for a girl at each college. For the record, that's far more books than I bought in college. But I guess that's because no one held a fundraiser so I could afford them. :(

50 Number of antiques dealers and galleries that will be featured in the 2008 Philadelphia Antiques Show, April 12-15 at the Navy Yard, 5100 S. Broad St. This year's proceeds — donated annually to the University of Pennsylvania Health System — will benefit the Penn Lung Center. Antiques dealers will not accept major organs. This is different.

93 Number of air conditioners the Greater Delaware Valley chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society is hoping will be donated to help people living with MS endure the summer months. Excessive heat exacerbates symptoms like fatigue, numbness and weakness for MS sufferers, whose disease results in an estimated $1 million in out-of-pocket expenses for the average victim. To donate new or used AC units, call 800-FIGHT-MS. AC: Is there anything it can't cure?

$250 Amount of money you can save for your group by sponsoring a table of 10 for $1,000 at "Thinking Outside the Bomb," a conference to "connect the dots" on the environment, nuclear weapons and global action on health on May 10 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Sheraton University City, 36th and Chestnut streets. Visit projectfornuclearawareness.org for registration and donations. Like the city's guns-for-stuff programs, those who relinquish their warheads will receive free admission. Actually I just made that up. But I'm guessing they'd honor it.

Can I get your digits? I want to hear about the numerals you need to see. Let a number runner know at runningnumbers@gmail.com.