HopeWell Cancer Support To Hold 5K Run/Walk in April

Hereford residents Meg Kimmel and Jamie Lacey-Moreira both had family members affected by cancer, and both turned to HopeWell Cancer Support in Lutherville for help.

"I learned of HopeWell after my mom passed," said Lacey-Moreira, now a volunteer for the center. "They were able to really give me some emotional strength."

Kimmel's father is a two-time cancer survivor. She is the center's director of communications now, and helping at the center has given her a sense of giving back.

"People don't know about [HopeWell] until they need it," Kimmel said. "We want to spread awareness about it."

In April, the support center will hold its 15th annual 5K run/walk,  Reachout & Run, at Goucher College. To build enthusiasm and encourage participation for the event, there will be a kickoff party at HopeWell on Wednesday, starting at 5:30 p.m. Those looking to participate can get more information and even join a team at the event.

Kimmel pointed out that the run/walk serves several purposes: it builds awareness for HopeWell and its work, it provides emotional support for cancer patients and supporters, and it raises much-needed money. The race generally provides about 20 percent of the organization's annual operating budget.

The run/walk will be held April 22, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Registration starts at 7 a.m. Reachout & Run is also hosting a one-mile walk for families with small children and cancer patients who may have difficulty with the 5K.

Registration for Reachout & Run is also available at this website.

Since becoming a volunteer at HopeWell, Lacey-Moreira has raised money to build the Kids' Wall of Hope in the children's garden, dedicated to her mother.

"Its going to help the kids," she said. "Cancer impacts the whole family."

The center offers a range of free services including support groups, yoga and other light movement classes, and expert guest speakers who address topics such as nutrition and wellness. There are also programs for children and teens.

Lacey-Moreira and Kimmel, along with Beth Engel, another Hereford resident who lost a sister to cancer, are heading their own team for the run/walk called Team Hereford Zone. The team will include students and folks who work for local businesses and recreational centers. Others from the area can join the Hereford team by clicking here.