HANCEVILLE — On Saturday, October 10, Wallace State Community College in Hanceville will host a walk and 5k run to benefit Children’s of Alabama.
The event has taken place a few times in Cullman in the past, but this year the event will be statewide. This summer, Governor Robert Bentley traveled to Cullman to proclaim October 10 as a statewide ‘Walkin’ and Runnin’ for Children Day.’
The event originated in Cullman where Key Club Adult-Board Member, and liaison to Children’s of Alabama, Bob Palys, came up with the event as a way to raise funds for the hospital.
Through his five years of leadership, more than $161,000 has been raised through combined fundraising efforts.
“You know, a lot of people think teenagers and kids don’t care about anyone else or the world,” Palys said.
“But that could not be further from the truth. [the Key Club] likes to think of it as ‘kids helping kids.’”
Saturday's fundraising effort is all for improving and expanding the Renal Services at Children’s.
According to Palys who works closely with the hospital through fundraising efforts, in 2014 children from Cullman spent a combined 5,050 days at Children’s.
Although it is the third largest children’s hospital in the country, Birmingham’s hospital serves the entirety of Alabama, which means they are constantly in need of funds to help keep children healthy.
“1,200 children have to go to the Renal Services Center,” Palys said.
“Those kids are having to go three times a week, for dialysis sessions that last between 3-5 hours.”
The event at WSCC will include a walk starting at 8:30 a.m. followed by a 5k run.
“The run will probably start at around 9 a.m.,” Palys said.
“And what is great is that the track at Wallace is certified, which adds to the ‘officialness’ of it all for the runners, you know.”
The suggested donation for participating in either the walk or the 5k run is $15, or $25 to participate in both.
“Everyone who participates will receive a certificate of appreciation, and there will be a limited number of shirts for the first people to register,” Palys said.
“I am hoping that young adults, churches and church groups come out and support this,” Palys said.
“You talk to anyone, ask anyone, and they have a Children’s Hospital story.”
