Exeter Hospital Trick or Treat Trot Honors Late Stratham Man

EXETER__ On October 30th, at 10:00 AM, starting on the campus of Exeter Hospital, teams of walkers, joggers, runners, and hundreds of supporters of all ages, many in their Halloween costumes, will take part in the Jim Dill Memorial Trick or Treat Trot 5K and United In Wellness Cancer Walk.

Now in its tenth year, this major event will support the goals of the hospital’s historic Together We Can fundraising campaign to expand cancer care and other vital healthcare services in the Seacoast region.

This year’s 10th anniversary event has been dedicated to the memory of Jim Dill of Stratham. His personal battle with cancer ended in June of 2021 but his impact on the communities of the Seacoast region won’t be forgotten as a leader, coach, mentor, colleague, and inspiration to many.

“For over 30 years, my dad was a big part of the community. Everybody knew him in Stratham – he coached all of our teams growing up. A family man, super-selfless, he always put others before himself,” said Brandon Dill, Jim Dill’s oldest son. “It’s so inspiring that the Trick or Treat Trot is being dedicated to my dad. It combines all of the things he loved, helping others, running, and dressing up for special occasions. Everyone who participates or contributes will help build on the things I know he valued and will help make life better for everyone in our community.”

"Jim joined Lindt (USA) in 2004. Over his many years at the company, he led multiple aspects of our sales organization prior to his promotion to the Vice President-Sales role in 2016. Through his leadership, unwavering commitment and great spirit, Jim has been instrumental in establishing Lindt (USA) as the number #1 premium chocolate company in the US marketplace. Many of us who knew him, know that Jim would never take personal credit for our Sales department’s many successes. He was a leader who took great pride in all our employees and attributed our success to the collective talent and contributions of the entire Lindt (USA) team. Jim was a true inspiration to our organization and will be remembered as both an incredible professional, leader and friend to us all," said Daniel Studer, Lindt Group Management (Former President and CEO, Lindt USA)

The presenting sponsor for the 2022 Jim Dill Memorial Trick or Treat Trot 5K and United In Wellness Cancer Walk event is Emanuel Engineering, the Stratham-based civil and structural engineering firm. “Emanuel Engineering’s sponsorship has set the pace for community leaders and other businesses in the region to help elevate the impact of this important part of the hospital’s $4-million Together We Can capital campaign,” said Dan Raposa, Director of Advancement at Exeter Health Resources. “Their support has helped create the momentum for what promises to be the largest and most successful edition of this now 10-year-old, community-wide fundraising event.”

“Our sponsors, and everyone who participates in this community-wide event, are helping build the brightest future for healthcare, right here at home,” said Pearla Phillips, Events Coordinator. “Honoring the memory of Jim Dill has reminded so many people of the strength and commitment we have in our community, and how important it is for all of us to help each other, and work together. He truly personified the spirit of ‘together we can’.”

Team captains and individuals are encouraged to register now for the event. Early bird registration is open through September 30. Team captains assemble groups of 5 or more participants who help meet a fundraising goal. People of all ages and all abilities can participate. Additionally, there is a ‘Creepy Crawler Fun Run’ for kids. Costumes are encouraged and prizes will be awarded for best costumes and fundraising achievements.

For more information about participating in the Jim Dill Memorial Trick or Treat Trot 5k & United in Wellness Cancer Walk and to register, visit unitedinwellness.org.