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Community Corner

First Teagan's Run Scheduled For Next Month

Run at the Huntley Fall Fest will benefit children impacted by pediatric cancer

In hopes of helping children and their families impacted by pediatric cancer, a local organization is hosting the first ever “Teagan’s Run” next month.

Seven year old Teagan Haniszewski, who lives in Huntley, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2007.

She battled cancer for five long years.

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Her family created the organization Opening Doors With Teagan after the treatment was over and the battle was won.

Their goal is to help other families like theirs impacted by pediatric cancer.

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Teagan’s run, a 5k run and 1-mile run/walk, will be held September 29, in conjunction with Huntley’s Fall Fest.

It is the first event for the organization, which is hoping to get their name out in the community through the run, which in turn will allow them to help more families, said board member Amy Wirth.

The Haniszewskis say many people believe that once the child is home after going through cancer treatment, many people believe everything is good.

But they say it’s not always the case.

“Cancer treatment leaves permanent scars. Therapy is a daily occurrence for these children and equipment is ever changing for the families. Insurance will only cover so many therapy treatments and only deem certain equipment necessary. Because of these parameters, families are forced to stop or limit therapies, not get life changing equipment, or stop paying their living expenses to be able to afford the costs. The hope of the Foundation is that we will be able to Open Doors for others so they may live the lives they deserve,” their website says.

“The end of the visits to hospital for treatment can leave you feeling like you're on your own. Many people find that they feel very low and emotional at this time, when they had expected to be able to put the cancer and the treatment behind them. This may be the time when you need the most support. Opening Doors With Teagan wants to be a support and resource for your child and family,” their website said.

The money raised through the race will help with this cause, Wirth said.

Teagan will be at the race, helping the cause.

“There are a lot of kids that can use our resources and need our help,” Wirth said. “Fall Fest is a big event in Huntley with a lot of exposure.

“Teagan, who is a true survivor and fighter will be at the 5k welcoming runners and walkers through the finish line,” she said. “That's what we hope to do with the foundation - help kids and their families with brain cancer get closer to the finish line.”

The race course begins at the pavilion at Deicke Park, and will wind through the Lion’s Chase subdivision, before heading back to the park.

Participants in the race will get free admission to the Lion’s Pancake Breakfast, from 8 to 11 a.m., following the race.

Racers who preregister will receive a shirt.

Race day registration runs from 6 to 7:15 a.m.

The 5k race begins at 7:30 a.m., with the 1-mile following at 7:45 a.m.

The course is CARA certified. The first place male and female 5k finishers will receive a medal.

Registration for the 5k is $25 before September 22, and $30 on or after September 22, and until race day.

The one-mile race is $5.

For information visit http://openingdoorswithteagan.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=89:teagans-run&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=50.

 

 

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