One Hundred and Fifty-Eight Runners & Walkers Participate
BY KERRY G. CAMP
HARRISBURG, IL: The streets of Harrisburg appeared quite safe on October 11 thanks to an abundance of Superheroes in attendance at the 4th Annual 5K-10K Run / Family Fun Walk organized by Integrated Health of Southern Illinois.
The theme for the event was “Superheroes for a Super Cause”. Turns out, there were superheroes everywhere, both in and out of costume.
With the diligence of Integrated Health staff – led by event organizer (Integrated Health Athletic Trainer) Chris Proctor – along with co-sponsoring support of some sixty-five area businesses, more than $10,000 was raised for the Fowler Bonan Foundation’s “Clothes for Kids” on a cloudy, cool Saturday morning in Harrisburg.
“Wow, that’s just unbelievable,” said Fowler Bonan Foundation co-founder Dale Fowler when told of the dollars raised for his organization. “I can’t really put into words how thankful we are (to Integrated Health). They have been onboard with us since day one.”
The “Incredibles” were recognized for “Best Team Costume” at Integrated Health’s Run/Walk on October 11 benefiting the Fowler Bonan Foundation. Along with foundation co-founder Dale Fowler, pictured are “Elastigirl”, “Violet”, “Dash”, and “Mr. Incredible”, better known as Amanda and Jarred Carter, daughter Madelyn, and son Aidan, from West Frankfort.
The 10K overall winners were Sara Goff of Marion and Austin Pryor of Eldorado.
Stacy Knight and Greg Hawes, both of Harrisburg, were the 5K run overall winners, while Shirley Fearheiley of Harrisburg and Tony Miksanek of Benton won the 5K walk.
Proctor said he was ecstatic with the turnout for the race and the support garnered for “Clothes for Kids”.
“There are a few places where we can make some improvements, and I plan on having an even bigger, better event next year,” Proctor said.
“When Dr. Dennison first brought up the idea of a $10,000 goal – up from last year’s total of $6,000 – I was nervous, but hopeful that we could accomplish it. Now that we have, I’m even more excited to think about our future success with this event, and in turn how many more children we can affect in a positive way.”
The event drew 158 runners and walkers to Harrisburg, many in costume.
“Our (Integrated Health) team has been blessed to have had the opportunity to team up with the Fowler-Bonan Foundation these past 4 years,” said Tyler Dennison, DC. “Anytime a person is able to help the community and make a positive impact, we believe it’s their duty to do so as an individual.”
“The Clothes for Kids program has been an absolute blessing to Southern Illinois and we’re proud to be a part of it.”
Fowler said not all of the heroes of the hour were in costume.
“All the staff at Integrated Health, each runner and walker, all the volunteers who assisted, and the more than five dozen co-sponsors of the event – they are all superheroes in my book,” Fowler said.
Integrated Health of Southern Illinois offers a full range of chiropractic care, acupuncture, physical therapy, massage, and nutrition services. The office is located in Parker Plaza in Harrisburg, and their website is www.integratedhealthofsi.com.
The Fowler-Bonan Foundation is a registered 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization that provides low-income children in Southern Illinois with new clothes and shoes. The organization works from a confidential referral system in which teachers or school administrators identify children in need. All Fowler-Bonan Foundation board members are volunteers. For more information, visit www.fowlerbonanfoundation.com
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