“We are told to bear one another’s burdens and that is exactly what this event is about today. We are here to bear one another’s burdens,” Kevin Medlin, pastor of Cumberland Presbyterian Church reminded the crowds gathered at the 12th Annual Sherry’s Run on Saturday. “We are are here to tell those we love that they do not stand alone. We are here to stand with them; to fight with them.”  

What began as a tragic loss, has now become an explosion of grace for this community. On this day, Sherry Whitaker’s birthday, we remember her legacy and celebrate all of the good that is being done in her name. For the 4,000 plus participants, this day is a celebration of hope. Some run for those they have lost. Others run for those who are still fighting. Everyone is there because of love. “I am so moved by the passion this community shows each year for our patients,” says Tonyia Watson, Board Chair & Director of Patient Assistance. “Each person that participates makes a difference in the lives of the people I see in my office every week.”

The 2015 Sherry’s Run was dedicated to the memory of Dr. Amanda Ray. Amanda left a legacy of love for everyone who knew her and for thousands who didn’t. Her story has touched people from around the world and inspired faith, hope and courage in everyone who hears it. She was a loving wife, a fun and caring mom, a fierce friend and a teacher that inspired her students to be better than they ever thought they could be. Read Amanda’s story.

The 2015 Sherry’s Run was in honor of Mackey Bentley.  Mackey and his wife, Judy, have truly been servants in this community for many years, and have supported Sherry’s Run so much. They represent what Sherry’s Run is all about: neighbors helping neighbors. Read Mackey’s story. 

The support was not only in spirit and attendance, but also in generosity. So far, more than $310,000 has been given.  That money will help families affected by any kind of cancer who live or seek treatment in Wilson County or the surrounding communities, who are actively pursuing treatment and demonstrate a true financial need. 

In 2014, donations to Sherry’s Run allowed us to make the following impact for patients and their families:

• $100,410 in Utility Bills Paid
• $30,986 in Housing Payments Paid
• $49,174 in Medical Bills and Prescriptions Paid
• $74,850 in Gas and Grocery Cards Provided

The 116 teams that participated added excitement and morale to the event in a special way.  Thanks to all those who formed and joined a team, the Team Chairs and all the Team Captains!  The following teams received awards:

• Most participants on a team – Whit’s Warriors with 478 Team members; Team Captain: Whit Robertson
• Most money raised (over entry fees): – Maple Hill church of Christ for Whit’s Warriors who raised $16,127; Team Captain: Gabbi Parrish 
• Most team spirit:  Lt. Bob’s Squad; Team Captain: Wendy Street 
• Team T-shirt Competition: IMA CrossFit; Team Captain: Dustin Roberson

Without the tireless effort of our faithful volunteers, this event would not be possible. Mike Johnson has been a board member and the committee chair for the event setup crew for many years. Mike’s humble and hardworking spirit provides invaluable leadership for this event. He received the 2015 Sherry’s Run Volunteer of the Year award.  We cannot thank him enough for his service.

Thank you to the more than 500 volunteers who worked so hard and contributed countless hours to make this event successful.   Thanks to all who participated in the ‘Paint Your Town Green’ campaign – you were instrumental in elevating the awareness of our event with green ribbons throughout our communities.  

Congratulations to the race winners:

• Female overall winner: Hope Ilias
• Male overall winner: Anthony Reeves
• Female Masters winner: Ashlee Chance
• Male Masters winner: Kerry Dickerson

For a full list of winners by age category and runner times, please refer to www.sherrysrun.org/the-race/5k-results.

There was not a dry eye in the crowd when the Whit’s Warriors team won the award for largest team and also received a special recognition for largest team in Sherry’s Run history. Whit Robertson, Lebanon High School senior and current cancer fighter, was not able to join us at the event, but his spirit was evident in the hundreds who represented him. Whit’s ambition even inspired the Lebanon Fire Department and the Maple Hill church of Christ to gift their registrations towards his team goal. Even in the midst of his own fight with cancer, his passion for serving others will bless hundreds in the Wilson County area.

On behalf of the Sherry’s Run Board of Directors we offer our sincerest thanks.  The success of this event lies with everyone who chose to make a difference and supported Wilson County’s largest faith-based non-profit event.