Registration is now open for the 8th Annual Charlee’s Run fundraiser, taking place on Saturday, May 4 at Tudhope Park in Orillia, On.
Charlee’s Run is named in honour of Charlee Clare Holmes, who passed away in 2011 only a few hours after birth. Her parents, Dave and Mallory Holmes, started the run as a way to end the silence surrounding pregnancy and infant loss.
The all-ages 5K or 1K run/walk features entertainment, a family fun zone with activities, and so much more.
Since its inception, Charlee’s Run has created a village of support for those who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss.
“This event is about providing an outlet for families to come together and remember and celebrate the tiny lives lost too soon,” said Mallory Holmes.
Proceeds from Charlee’s Run continue to support Neonatal and Paediatric services at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH). This year, funds raised will help purchase new Panda Warmers for the High-Risk Delivery Room, Caesarean Section Room, and Emergency Room.
“Panda Warmers give our healthcare team the best chance of a successful outcome for high-risk newborns,” says Laura Ferris, Interim Program Director, Regional Women & Children OSMH.
“As the Regional Women and Children’s Hospital, we support families within Simcoe County, Muskoka, Parry Sound, Collingwood, and surrounding areas. If a pregnancy is deemed high-risk, the baby will be transferred to OSMH, it is essential that our neonatal equipment provides the highest quality of care,” she said.
To date, Charlee’s Run has raised more than $580,000 for Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital’s Neonatal and Paediatric needs, as well as bereavement services. A dedicated bereavement cart is funded by Charlee’s Run and provides support to those experiencing the loss of a little one.
“We would give anything to have our daughter here with us today, but seeing this event grow and knowing the countless families and children this community has helped… there are no words,” Dave Holmes said.
To register for the event and to make a donation, please visit CharleesRun.com. Register before March 15, 2024, to take advantage of special early-bird pricing.
