Fun run participants honor loved ones while raising funds for hospice care

Wearing commemorative T-shirts, flouncy tutus and colorful socks, the runners and walkers in Hospice of the Chesapeake’s Blue Crab Fun Run came to have fun while supporting an essential Charles County not-for-profit organization.

They were cheered on by Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq., President of the Charles County Board of Commissioners, who served as Grand Marshal for the inaugural event. Collins said he was grateful for the support and guidance he received while his father was cared for by Hospice of the Chesapeake in 2022. “I am thinking of my father today and I know he is smiling down on us this morning,” Collins said. He encouraged participants to dedicate each of their steps to the memory of a loved one.

Many of the participants had come to do just that. From Papa’s Pack to Team Harvey, there were miles of smiles from toddlers to retired folk as they carried signs and shared memories while taking laps around Regency Furniture Stadium on Oct. 5.

The event raised nearly $30,000, with all proceeds benefitting patients and families in Charles County, ensuring they have access to expert and compassionate supportive, hospice and grief care.

Along with the commitment of esteemed community health partner, the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center, Hospice of the Chesapeake wishes to thank Waldorf Toyota as the Finish Line sponsor, Cedar Point Federal Credit Union as the Champion sponsor; John and Terri Hussman as Pace sponsors; Mutual of Omaha as Stride sponsor; Jan Kleponis at O'Brien Realty ERA Powered as the Training sponsor; and American Radiology Services, Gameday Men's Health Waldorf and Rucci's Italian Kitchen and Grille as Warm Up sponsors.

Local support also came from water station underwriter Trollinger Law and event partners Cha’Artistry, LLC; KNC Marketing, Inc.; Kona Ice; Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers; and Waldorf Lions Club.