Walk or run to benefit Angel Wings

On Sept. 28, the Angel Wings Network will host the eighth annual 5k/1mile walk/run. Both routes will begin and end at Weiser City Park with the races beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at noon.  
 The run/walk is a community event that not only gives participants an opportunity to fun run, but also brings the community together to support those battling cancer, celebrate survivors, and honor those who have been lost It is also  one of the biggest fundraisers for Angel Wings to help them raise money for their cancer support programs.
 Angel Wings event organizers are hopeful that people will register and dress up in teams to honor those that they know who have been affected by cancer. From those facing that battle currently, to the caregivers, cancer has affected a large portion of our community, they want everyone to come out and support each other together. Organizers are hopeful that the numbers will exceed the 150-200 people that have participated in recent years.
 This year, the fundraising side of the event is especially important because the organization has been inundated with new cancer patients. Although many of the patients are able to receive their treatments in Fruitland, several of the patients are undergoing more intensive treatments and are required to drive to Boise. This means that the organization sometimes goes through over $1,000 a month in gas cards alone.
 Last year, the organization supplied 206 gas cards for the entire year. This year they have already supplied 206 gas cards and there are still three months to go.
 Those who have cared for cancer patients or who have faced that battle personally know that cancer has no boundaries. From 6 year old patients to 80 year old patients, from those who are facing other health battles along with the cancer, to athletes in peak physical condition cancer affects anyone. And, although it is sometimes curable or removable, the long term effects can often remain with the survivor for years.
 The organization is also hoping that the community will see the need for volunteer support. Anyone who can help drive patients to appointments or volunteer their time, can help make a big difference for families facing this battle.
 While there are many organizations that support the fight against cancer and cancer research at the national level, the money raised by those organizations cannot directly help the families here in our local communities. The money that can be raised by Angel Wings stays local and helps families with those unexpected expenses that add up quickly.
 “No matter how financially secure you are, it’s a huge burden,” organizers said.
 Along with the financial support that the group is able to provide, and the time that they dedicate to helping with transportation and support for appointments, the group also provides a very special keepsake for each person who faces the cancer diagnosis: a special blanket to help comfort them during class and keep them warm during chemo treatments.  
 The blankets are made by all volunteers, and many of them are made by the Washington County 4-H members. The organization shared that the blankets are often mentioned specifically in thank-you cards from the patients.
 Joe Qualls is once again volunteering as the event emcee and other fun and festivities will include a silent auction and special goodies being given out in the survivors tent. Prizes will also be awarded to the best dressed individual and teams.
 The race will kick off with two community members leading the walk/run who are currently battling cancer, Larry Thompson and Rhonda Scrivner.
 Registration for this event is $25 per individual. Children 10 and under and pets are free. Registration forms are available at the Angel Wings network offices, 773 West Main St., or by calling 208-414-9464 for the registration form to be mailed or delivered.