HOULTON, Maine — Organizers of the fourth annual Hannah Mooers 5K run/walk are hoping for an even bigger turnout for this year’s event.
Last year, more than 100 people turned out and raised just over $1,000 for the New England Donor Bank.
Scheduled for Saturday, May 5, this year’s run/walk again takes place at the Millar Civic Center, with registration beginning at 9 a.m., followed by the race at 10 a.m.
From birth, Mooers suffered from a heart disease known as truncas arteriosis type 4, along with several other complications, according to her family. She underwent three open heart surgeries beginning when she was five weeks old. Her second was when she was 5 and her last one at 11 years of age.
At the age of 16, Mooers was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, which complicated her condition even more. Mooers persevered and finished out her high school career. She graduated from Houlton High School in 2013 and had plans to attend college, but her health held her back.
She became a fixture at Houlton Elementary School, where she worked as a substitute teacher with the young children.
Mooers also was involved in a number of causes, including the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, the Houlton Humane Society, the Ark Animal Sanctuary and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
When she died in February 2015 at the age of 19, a number of her organs were donated to the New England Donor Bank.
“People like Hannah make the ultimate sacrifice to give to others,” said Tammy Farwell, one of the event organizers. “This is why we do this race.”
The group is hoping members of Mooers’ graduating Class of 2013 will be on hand to participate in this year’s run/walk. The registration fee is $10 and includes a T-shirt. Those who wish to wear a pink shirt, which was Hannah’s favorite color, can participate in the run/walk for just $5.
For more information, contact Farwell at 694-0521.
