MCH 5K Run/Walk raises more than $450,000 for children

Through the support of more than 3,500 runners and walkers and corporate partners, the Hyundai Hope On Wheels Second Annual Miami Children’s Hospital 5K (MCH5K) Presented by TotalBank raised more than $450,000 for the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital, more than double the amount raised through the inaugural event. The recent MCH5K was run for the second straight year in front of Coral Gables City Hall.

Featuring fundraising teams created in honor of patients and former patients, as well as those wishing to make a difference, the MCH5K showcased the many lives that have been impacted by Miami Children’s Hospital and celebrated the children.

This year’s MCH5K Hero, 8-year-old cancer survivor Alberto Hernandez, inspired participants to cross the finish line.

“Alberto is a very special example of one of the hundreds of thousands of children Miami Children’s Hospital helps each and every year, said Lucy Morillo-Agnetti, Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation president and CEO. “The outpouring of support from both our community and employees makes it possible for us to help fund research, equipment, medical experts and projects that allow Miami Children’s Hospital to provide the highest level of care to the children.”

Hyundai Hope On Wheels hosted a “Handprint Ceremony” at which several cancer survivors, including Alberto, had the opportunity to decorate a Hyundai with their painted hands.

“Hyundai Hope On Wheels is proud to support institutions like Miami Children’s Hospital that continue the fight against childhood cancer,” said Zafar Brooks, director and board member of Hyundai Hope On Wheels. “Our team’s donation in the amount of $115,847 to Miami Children’s Hospital is part of Hyundai Hope On Wheels’ September initiative, which has funded more than $11 million in pediatric cancer research grants this month alone.

“This is a cause that is important to us and we believe with the support of our dealers, hospital partners, online community and 5K runners and walkers our goal of finding a cure is attainable.”

Michael Baiamonte, voice of the NBA Champion Miami Heat, served as emcee and participants had the opportunity to hear their names called out like the pros. Former patient Leia Schwartz sang the National Anthem and dignitaries, including Coral Gables Mayor Jim Cason, Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez and Miami-Dade Commissioner Esteban Bovo, presented proclamations to commemorate the special occasion.

Kohl’s Cares announced a grant for nearly $150,000 as part of a partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital to promote yearround bike and helmet safety for children. Kohl’s Cares launched this year’s program at the MCH5K by providing free bike helmets and safety information to children and families in attendance.

CJ George, Hyundai Hope On Wheels 2012-13 National Youth Ambassador, sounded the horn to begin the race.

The event featured a timed 3.1-mile (5 kilometer) run and walk. Miles Murphy of Miami Beach was the top male finisher at 16:46 and Erika Huerta of Miami was the top female finisher at 18:33. They each received a Samsung Illusion 3G Smartphone courtesy of Verizon Wireless.

The MCH5K also included a Kids Fun Race allowing children to complete shorter differences while still supporting their fellow children.

For more information and to view runner times and photos from the event, visit online at MCH5K.com. To learn more about the Foundation and offer support, visit www.mchf.org


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