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Organizers 'overwhelmed' as Charlee’s Run exceeds expectations, raises $57,500

More than 500 runners and volunteers participated; last year's inaugural event raised $40,000
Charlee's Run
Charlee’s Run organizers Mallory and David Holmes are joined by family in the hospital’s soon-to-be outpatient pediatric floor to present a cheque for $57,500 to Lisa Wanamaker, Development Officer, OSMH Foundation (left) and Mark Riczu, Executive Director, OSMH Foundation (right).

NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA SOLDIERS' MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION
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An incredible $57,500 was raised at this year’s Charlee’s Run, benefitting sick children and their families at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH). The run, which took place at Couchiching Beach Park on April 28, is named in memory of Charlee Clare Holmes, who passed away shortly after birth at OSMH.

More than 500 runners and volunteers gathered to spread awareness on prenatal and infant loss, as well as raise funds for the Hospital’s Outpatient Pediatric Project.

“We could not be more overwhelmed and at the same time humbled by this journey. At the centre of Charlee’s Run, we are parents who no longer feel alone, but instead lifted, supported and inspired,” said Mallory and David Holmes, Charlee’s parents and run organizers. “The money will directly support children who use the services of the Hospital’s Outpatient Pediatric Program, and we are honoured to share just how much our community stands behind every family inside those walls.”

The Hospital’s Outpatient Pediatric Program, which includes childhood cancer care, juvenile diabetes, eating disorder care, asthma, mental health and more, is currently located at three different sites.

Plans are underway to move all of these services to the second floor of OSMH as part of the hospital’s greater movement to “wrap care” around the patient. Now kids who use multiple services of the program will spend less time at the hospital, and enjoy a transformed family friendly space that includes a gym, murals, iPads and new toys.

“We are so honoured to be part of Charlee’s legacy and share in this incredible story,” said Lisa Wanamaker, Development Officer, OSMH. “Dave and Mallory’s commitment to breaking the silence on prenatal and infant loss, as well as improving care for some of OSMH’s most vulnerable patients is inspiring. We truly cannot thank them enough.”

Last year, Charlee’s Run raised over $40,000 for OSMH’s now completed state of the art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, bringing their total amount raised to almost $100,000. To learn more about Charlee’s Run, visit their website at www.charleesrun.com.

About Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital Foundation

The OSMH Foundation is a proud partner of Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital and the people of Orillia and North Simcoe/Muskoka. The Foundation provides funds to the Hospital to buy medical equipment, sustain programs and assist the Hospital in maintaining its position as a leader in providing quality community based healthcare.

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