Paying it forward: Lily’s Hope 5K run/walk

Proceeds benefit area families dealing with cancer

Main event page … Online registration … Paper/mail-in entry form … Course map

* Frederick News-Post * More about Lily

NEW MARKET, Md., Nov. 11, 2012 — Once again, local families, businesses, schools, sport teams and clubs are hitting the streets to honor a young New Market resident who was diagnosed with a rare bone cancer. This year’s event will celebrate the successful completion of a year’s worth of treatment, a cancer remission and a return to a school for Lily Weaver, a sixth grader at New Market Middle School.

Lily Weaver is back in her New Market middle school this fall and will participate in the 2nd annual Lily’s Hope 5K run/walk on Sunday, Nov. 11. She will wear bib No. 1.

Lily’s Hope 5K Run/Walk will be held Sunday, November 11, 2012, at the West Winds Tennis and Fitness Center and wind through the rolling hills of the neighboring community. The 3.1-mile road course is certified by USA Track and Field, which means it’s accurately measured and record-ready.

Proceeds from Lily’s Hope 5K will again benefit the Patty Pollatos Fund, Inc. (www.ppfinc.org), a non-profit community-based organization that raises funds for area families dealing with the temporary financial strain caused by cancer and other catastrophic challenges.

“This past year, we gained first-hand experience in the financial and emotional toll that a cancer diagnosis places on a family. We were extremely lucky to have the support of family, friends and absolute strangers – but other cancer patients aren’t so fortunate. Many have nothing or no one to help.” expressed Amy Weaver, Lily’s mom. “We look forward to giving back to the community that rallied behind us during our most difficult time.”

The 5K run/walk begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. and will be followed by a post-race party featuring music, refreshments and awards honoring top finishers. Advance registration fees are $20 for individuals and $100.00 for a family sponsorship. Register online at www.active.com (keywords “Lily’s Hope”) by October 31. Last year’s event attracted more than 1,700 participants and raised nearly $50,000.

Youth sport teams and clubs can wear their uniforms and register as teams ($15 per team member). For team registration, contact [email protected]. To become a sponsor or to donate goods for the event, contact [email protected].