The Lemon Run finds its Stride…

Last Sunday, we hosted our first annual Lemon Run – a 5K Run, Family Fun Walk and Kids' Race. Through the years, we have added various fundraising events (beside lemonade stands, of course) in an effort to raise as much money as possible for these amazing kids. We have a formal gala, The Lemon Ball and a “foodie” event The Great Chefs Event, so adding a 5K to get folks outside and moving seemed like a natural next step!

In the days prior to the event there was an abundance of excitement, which seemed to coincide with some nerves. The weather was of course our main concern, as we certainly couldn’t tent the entire course! Both Friday and Saturday were a complete wash, but when we woke up on Sunday something had changed. We started set up in the dark, but by 7AM, the sun was shining brightly for what would turn out to be the perfect day for a run. The sun wasn’t the only thing shining on Sunday, there were hundreds, scratch that, a thousand participants shining a light on the cause of childhood cancer. We were joined by hero families, familiar faces, and a lot of new ones too. In addition to everyone at Ridley Creek State Park on Sunday, there were nearly 100 virtual participants who woke up early in their own neighborhoods to run the 5K at the very same time we were. I am thrilled to report that the first Lemon Run raised over $50,000, which is quite an accomplishment for year one.

A big thank you to everyone who came out as well as those who joined us virtually! For those of you who couldn’t join us, we have put together a video that we think captures the day.

PS – see how many people you can find wearing Lemon Costumes!

- Liz Scott, Alex's Mother