In the summer of 2005 I saw a local call for support for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, through a new event in Quincy, a relay style run from Quincy to Peoria. I have enjoyed running for many years and thought this event would be worthwhile to participate in, and it absolutely is!

Since the first year our run has grown into a strong local movement for the support of St. Jude, and children in Quincy and the surrounding area, our nation, and around the world.

I recently had the opportunity to visit St. Jude’s hospital in Memphis. It was an amazing experience and an honor to see first hand the miracles happening there everyday. I am very excited for Quincy and the community in working toward the founding dream of St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, "No Child Should die in the dawn of life" -Danny Thomas, Founder.

It is truly a unique run, for you don’t have to be a marathon runner or a track star, you choose how much or how little you run. The 500$ fundraising requirement for all runners is a goal worth working for. The love and connection people have to St. Jude is remarkable. You don’t have to have a personal experience with cancer or sick children to understand St. Jude, and the reason we run. There are many personal stories with cancer, the fight for life, and hope. The individuals involved in the Quincy run are dedicated and our committees are strong. I not only make running a part of my life for health, but with the St. Jude run especially, I run for life and I run for hope.

I would encourage anyone looking for a way to get involved, enjoys the outdoors, loves an active adventure, is challenged by fundraising, loves children, and believes in the beautiful dream of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, to come join us in this phenomenal event in Quincy!

-Rebecca Stump