Florida 5K run/walk on Aug. 10 to benefit Bonnie Ames
FLORIDA A 5K run/walk will be held in conjunction with the Florida FunFest on Sunday, Aug. 10 at 8:30 a.m. Proceeds from the sponsors and race registrations will go directly to help Bonnie Ames with her rehabilitation costs and medical bills. Last April 14, the 21-year-old Ames, an EMT, was just doing her job, when she was in an accident while riding in an ambulance en route to help others. Her life changing injuries included losing her arm and damaging her spinal cord. “This is a way the whole community can come together and support Bonnie and her family,” said Amy Hallock, race director. “We can try to make something positive come from such a tragic situation for one of our local young adults. I would really like to see walkers, runners, kids, people with different abilities turn out to help inspire Bonnie and her family. Bonnie is someone who wanted to spend her life helping others and this is just one way that we can now help her. These events are about people joining together for a common good as well as promoting healthy physical and mental fitness.” According to the Web site www.bonnieames.org, Ames is a past member of the Florida Highland Engine and Hose Company #3 and has been with the Town of Wallkill Volunteer Ambulance Corps for five years where she maintained the rank of sergeant. She is also a part of the fundraising committee and has helped with multiple fundraisers and National EMS week. Runners and walkers can go online and register at www.active.com. Registration after July 21 is $20. Pre-race registration starts at 7 a.m. at S.S. Seward Institute on Main St. in Florida with a race start time of 8:45 a.m. Awards will be provided by Excel Physical Performance and given to the top three male and female finishers in each group: 10 and under; 11-14; 15-18; 19-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; and 60 and up. Volunteers are needed. Donations and registrations may also be sent to Florida FunFest 5K, PO Box 505, Florida, 10921. For more information, call Hallock at 651-2564.