An upcoming 5K run will honor a girl who died of cancer and fund scholarships for Whiteland students.
The Because I’m Happy Fun Run/Walk will be at 1 p.m. Sept. 12 at Break-O-Day Elementary School, 900 Sawmill Road, Whiteland.
Volunteer Mary Ward tells you what we need to know about the event.
Where does the money for the run go?
The money will provide scholarships for Whiteland Community High School graduates who will pursue a degree in medicine or nursing. Money will also go toward donating gifts to families at Riley Hospital for Children who are on the oncology and stem cell floor fighting neuroblastoma.
How did you get the idea to do a run as a fundraiser?
Alaina Day was such an amazing little girl who always wanted to make other smile. She loved walking the halls at Riley while listening to her favorite song, “Happy.” Alaina was an inspiration to others and the true definition of the word strength. We wanted to honor her memory. Bringing folks together at a family fun walk seemed like the perfect idea. Promoting the medical field and giving back to the patients at Riley — two very important groups that supported the family in the most professional and caring way.
How many people are you expecting?
Since this is our first year, I will take a guess, about 200 people. Many people followed her story on Facebook, and we hope that they will join us in honoring her memory and walking for this cause.
What is your goal for the event?
The goal of this event is to bring the community together to support the cause of the Alaina Day Memorial Foundation, to raise enough money to provide scholarships to Whiteland graduates and gifts for families at Riley.
How can you register?
Registration fliers can be found on Alaina Day Memorial’s Facebook page.
