You may have noticed the signs around town this year encouraging you to register for #TeamMimi, but “Mimi” is no rookie to Sherry’s Run. Denise Moore, the namesake for #TeamMimi, was involved in the earliest conversations that formed the local faith based non-profit that benefits cancer patients and their families in and around Wilson County.

In 2004, Denise and her friend, Tamara Lampsa, were having lunch and discussing the memory of a beautiful friend, Sherry Whitaker. Lampsa suggested organizing a 5K in Sherry’s honor and Denise immediately jumped in to help. Because she had been a part of the community for years, Denise volunteered to help coordinate the silent auction and visit with those sponsors. Denise’s husband, Lynotte, got involved as a sponsor through his local business, 231 Car Sales, and has been a faithful supporter for years.

Fast forward to 2017 and Denise is now fighting her own battle with cancer, inspiring her family and friends to form #TeamMimi in her honor. “With more than 90 members, this brand new team is on track to be the largest at Sherry’s Run this year,” says Corrie Cluck, Administrative Coordinator for Sherry’s Run.

It is no wonder that this community has shown such great support for Denise. Those who know her best describe her as sweet, loving and generous. Though she has given much of her time through the years to serve Sherry’s Run and other organizations in town (like New Leash on Life), Denise’s greatest passion and investment is her family. Her husband of 24 years, three beautiful stepdaughters and four grandchildren (along with her brother, sister and parents in Alabama) have been what kept her going throughout her diagnosis and treatment.

“I couldn’t imagine going through this with no one to support you,” says Denise. “That’s what Sherry’s Run does for so many in our community…they are a bright light into the darkness cancer causes.” Denise is still undergoing chemotherapy treatment, but she doesn’t plan to let that keep her from joining her team on Saturday morning, which also happens to be her birthday! “I am so thankful to all of my dear friends for the prayers, love and support,” says Denise. “I just want to encourage others to spend time with your family; appreciate what you have; and do what you can for others.”

And what better way to do that than to participate in giving hope through Sherry’s Run? Join us as we honor Denise at the race this year. Register here.