An incredible $57,500 was raised at this year’s Charlee’s Run, benefitting sick children and their families at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH). The run, which took place at Couchiching Beach Park on April 28th, is named in memory of Charlee Clare Holmes, who passed away shortly after birth at OSMH. More than 500 runners and volunteers gathered to spread awareness on prenatal and infant loss, as well as raise funds for the Hospital’s Outpatient Paediatric Project.
“We could not be more overwhelmed and at the same time humbled by this journey. At the centre of Charlee’s Run, we are parents who no longer feel alone, but instead lifted, supported and inspired,” said Mallory and David Holmes, Charlee’s parents and run organizers. “The money will directly support children who use the services of the Hospital’s Outpatient Paediatric Program, and we are honored to share just how much our community stands behind every family inside those walls.”
The Hospital’s Outpatient Paediatric Program, which includes childhood cancer care, juvenile diabetes, eating disorder care, asthma, mental health and more, is currently located at three different sites. Plans are underway to move all of these services to the second floor of OSMH as part of the Hospital’s greater movement to “wrap care” around the patient. Now kids who use multiple services of the program will spend less time at the Hospital, and enjoy a transformed family friendly space that includes a gym, murals, iPads and new toys.
“We are so honoured to be part of Charlee’s legacy and share in this incredible story,” said Lisa Wanamaker, Development Officer, OSMH. “Dave and Mallory’s commitment to breaking the silence on prenatal and infant loss, as well as improving care for some of OSMH’s most vulnerable patients is inspiring. We truly cannot thank them enough.”
Last year, Charlee’s Run raised over $40,000 for OSMH’s now completed state of the art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, bringing their total amount raised to almost $100,000. To learn more about Charlee’s Run, visit their website at www.charleesrun.com.