Baltimore native, stuntman, and first responder, Steven Williams is excited to be running again in Casey Cares 5K this year!
For him, “running is the key element for ever sport. I started running to condition my body for several sports I compete in and I wanted to try a different workout besides lifting weights.”
He stresses that you should always “stretch before running, and start training in running before the run” when it comes to those who want to try a 5K.
Steven loves that running means he’s on “the open road. I love the scenery of Baltimore.”
He also enjoys all “different people that you meet when running. You learn we as people have a lot in common.”
Naturally, Steven always has his phone with him when running to listen to music from the movie Rocky! Turn up “Eye of the Tiger!”
Casey Cares is all the more special to Steven, both with the 5K and his daughter.
“The Casey Cares 5K is the first timed race I’ve ever ran in. Also, I have daughter, Amber, that was born prematurely at 3 pounds. Due to Casey Cases Foundation and John Hopkins, she is doing so well and is currently 12!”
Don’t forget to sign up for our 15th Annual 5K/1-Mile Walk at the Maryland Zoo on August 3rd (HERE) and share your fundraising pages!
Class is in session! Anne Arundel County teacher Lindsey has joined Casey Cares 5K!
For Lindsey, a retired gymnast and kindergarten teacher, running has become a way to prioritize her mental and physical well-being. She shares, “I am a retired gymnast, and I missed the dedication and competition of an organized sport. Running helps me stay in shape and competing in a race or against my personal best helps me relive the competitiveness of gymnastics.”
The best part of running for Lindsey is the mental aspect. “Running helps me disconnect from the stress of life. It’s just me, my running shoes, and the pavement underneath me. I love being outside and will run outside (in any weather) over running on the treadmill any day!” she says. Lindsey’s must-haves for running include her running shoes, a trail, and an “I can do this!” attitude.
Lindsey’s advice for those just starting to incorporate running or walking into their lifestyle is simple: “Enjoy it. Get out there, on the treadmill or outside, and move your body! Run or walk to escape life, find clarity, challenge yourself, and be present in the moment. Focus less on your time or how fast you are and more on showing up for yourself!”
It was her goal to run in one 5K race every month in 2024 that led Lindsey to discover the Casey Cares 5K. “I discovered the Casey Cares race online and decided to sign up for this race in August. I selected this race above the others because of who the race supports. I wanted to race to raise money for families with critically ill children, especially since I am a Kindergarten teacher!” she explains.
Every runner (and walker!) in our race has a reason for joining but the most popular reason is to support the kids in our programs as they continually battle critical illnesses. Your registration helps bring them a day of much needed joy and fun with their family through Casey Cares’ exciting activities and programs. Sign up here for our 15th Annual 5K/1-Mile Walk at the Maryland Zoo on August 3rd!
“I started running when my son Maverick was in the hospital receiving chemotherapy treatments for leukemia,” Casey Cares mom Madelynne says.
Every runner has a reason and for Madelynne, it’s her son Maverick.
“It was suggested to me to find a release for all the emotions associated with having a critically ill child and running was the perfect solution. I could leave all the anger and pain on the pavement and feel ready to fight again,” she shares.
Madelynne first learned about Casey Cares from her son’s social worker at Johns Hopkins. “Mav has been a Casey Cares kiddo for a couple years now,” she says.
This connection is what led Madelynne to participate in the Casey Cares 5K last year. “I participated in the race last year to support the wonderful people who have helped my family so much. I loved being able to represent Maverick’s Monsters, our group’s team name, in an effort to raise awareness for childhood cancer and give back to such an amazing organization,” Madelynne states.
For Madelynne, the best part of running has a two-fold benefit. “Nothing beats the therapeutic value of running through your emotions. The other amazing aspect of running is being able to use it for awareness and advocacy. I love being able to represent my little homie with an extra chromie as well as support fundraising efforts for both childhood cancer and the Down syndrome community,” she explains.
When it comes to running, Madelynne can’t do without her “awesome combination of empowering tunes” on her playlist. As for advice for those just starting to incorporate running or walking into their lifestyle, Madelynne encourages, “Challenge yourself. It’s not meant to be easy, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be rewarding. The best things in life take a little work.”
Come together and build your own team for our 5K in support of Casey Cares programs for critically ill children like Maverick – click here to register today!
As we get closer to the Casey Cares 5K, we are excited to share the latest installment of “Every Runner Has A Reason!” Please welcome Charles!
Chalres began running after he “due to health issues I was having as a result of my own poor lifestyle choices, and getting older.”
From there, Charles’ opinion on running evolved. “At first, the best part of running was finishing, and feeling that sense of accomplishment. Over time, I started to enjoy the act of running,” he says.
As long as he has his “tunes,” Charles is good to walk or run!
For those looking to begin a journey towards a lifestyle change, Charles reminds people to “be patient, start slowly and be consistent. We have the rest of our lives.”
Charles decided to participate in the Casey Cares 5K after he “learned about Casey Cares while searching for some 5Ks for good causes. There is something about running for a good cause that makes the run feel better, and to know that we all struggle sometimes.”
We’re so thankful for participants like Charles, who help us provide ongoing, fun, and free activities and programs for critically ill children and their families who face every day with medical challenges and numerous harsh treatments.
Casey Cares 15th Annual 5K/1-Mile Walk at the Maryland Zoo is less than a month away on August 3rd! Register to run or walk today to support our programs for critically ill kids and their families HERE.
Casey Cares headed down the coast to be pampered! The Glitz Nails and Boutique in Florida recently invited the local community to join them at for a special “Sip! Shop! Spa!” event to benefit Casey Cares critically ill children and families!
From Friday, June 28th through Sunday, June 30th, guests indulged in a variety of luxury spa services, including manicures and pedicures, while sipping on mimosas and champagne and browsing the boutique’s chic offerings. 20% of all proceeds from goods and services purchased during these three days were donated directly to benefit Casey Cares programs!
Thanks to the generosity of the boutique, Casey Cares child Yulisa, age 10 and born with cystic fibrosis, was pampered with a special pedicure courtesy of Glitz’s owner Dyanne Nguyen.
“We were thrilled to partner with the amazing team at Glitz Nails and Boutique to provide our community with this fun and pampering experience, all while supporting the brave children and families in our programs,” said Casey Cares Foundation Founder Casey Baynes. “Every dollar raised will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing critical illness.”
We’re grateful to Glitz Nails and Boutique and all who participated in making the “Sip! Shop! Spa!” weekend a memorable and impactful experience!
Welcome Casey Cares 5K first-timer and cancer warrior Rachael!
“This is my first year participating in this event! As I have been incorporating more running into my daily routine, I decided to combine this passion with another and began donating time and money to several local charities that promote health and wellness and provide critical care and services to those in need,” she says.
Rachael adds, “I am running in several events in 2024 for local cancer charities and found Casey Cares, an excellent organization providing a meaningful service to children in need. I am honored to be a part of this year’s event!”
Her running journey began during the pandemic…and a challenging diagnosis.
“In the midst of the pandemic, in 2021, I was diagnosed with cancer. After a long 2-year battle involving several surgeries, multiple chemotherapy regimens, and immunotherapy treatment, I was cancer-free, but not without a tremendous toll on my body, ” Rachael states.
She found that the “treatments left me feeling decimated, and I took up running as a way to rebuild myself healthier, stronger, and happier.”
Rachael discovered that the best part of running is “exploring new paths. I enjoy running in new areas to keep it exciting. Sometimes it’s a trail run where I can enjoy the solitude of nature, and sometimes it’s a run to meet fellow running enthusiasts.”
Whenever she goes for run, Rachael makes sure she brings along her dog, Rocky, a miniature Schnauzer. At almost 10 years old, she says that “He’s a great running companion and keeps my legs moving and pace strong.”
For new runners, she shares her advice in that “everyone has to start somewhere. Don’t let long finish times or great distances overwhelm you. Just start your journey, enjoy the path, and you’ll progress as you keep at it!”
Your registration provides a lasting impact children in Casey Cares programs, many of which are in remission for or battling a form of cancer! Click here to sign up for the Casey Cares 5K before the t-shirt deadline on July 13th.
ummer is in full swing and so are Casey Cares activities! From outdoor adventures to sporting events, our kids are are creating lasting memories and finding joy during this time of year! See below to read towo such adventures!
Pirate Party!
Avast me hearties! It was a beautiful day out on the open seas for our Urban Pirates party with dozens of Casey Cares families! Kids got the chance to spend the morning as a pirate and enjoyed music, games, and lots of pirate-themed festivities including defending the ship in a water battle with a loveable group of scallywags! Thank you Urban Pirates for bringing so much fun to our critically ill kids and their families for 17 years. Our Caring Connections program organizes events like this party that bring together families of critically ill children, allowing them to connect with one another, share their experiences and resources, all while enjoying quality time and creating lasting memories together.
Annapolis Blues!
Thanks to the generosity of the Annapolis Blues FC soccer team, a few of our Casey Cares families were treated to a special pre-game experience before watching the team become Mid-Atlantic Regular Season Champions. Our families had the opportunity to meet and hear player Webb Kosich’s journey, who was diagnosed with aplastic anemia and underwent a bone marrow transplant – with his sister Julia as the donor. The families also got an exclusive tour of the Blues’ locker room and shared their stories and inspiration for fighting with Webb!
We cannot wait to see what’s coming next for our families! Have tickets to a special outing? Tranfer them to a family by emailing our Program Director at [email protected]!
On this special edition of “Every Runner Has A Reason,” we’re honored to spotlight Gina Truesdale and her family – who are deeply important to the Casey Cares community and our programs.
Her son, Abraham “Hammy” Scrivner, was in Casey Cares program during his 4 year treatment for a very rare form of brain cancer. Gina had learned about Casey Cares through “a social worker at John’s Hopkins Hospital.”
“Casey Cares provided uplifting activities that would take our minds off doctors’ appointments and hospital treatments, even if it was just for an hour or two. We met families who were going through similar challenges as we were, and we were able to lean on each other in fun environments,” Gina states.
She continues, “Hammy was very athletic and played soccer, football, basketball, baseball, and lacrosse. He was also instrumentally inclined, playing the cello, trumpet, and snare drum; while also singing in his school’s chorus. Hammy was the caregiver to two red-eared slider turtles named Rocky and Crush whom he loved and adored.”
After Hammy passed away at age 10, Gina jumped into Casey Cares as a volunteer and created the “Hammy’s Heart” program to fulfill her son’s last wish to help feed others. That program supplies grocery store gift cards to families who need assistance while caring for a critically ill child. Since families are often overwhelmed with so many other financial obligations, this program helps with basic needs when money is stretched to its limits.
Gina started running the Casey Cares 5K in memory of her son and “supporting families that now need Casey Cares” while enjoying “getting a workout in early.”
She shares that if someone is just starting to incorporate running or walking into their lifestyle, “30 minutes of walking a day is all you need.”
When you see Gina and her team, stop and say hi! She will be walking in “a new customized Hammy t-shirt!”
Her family is the reason Casey Cares continues its mission as your registration supports children and their families like Hammy and Gina. When you are at the Maryland Zoo on August 3rd and you see the “Hammy’s Hearts” t-shirts, be sure to say hello! Join Gina and sign up today!
Casey Cares volunteer Ono is returning for her third 5K this year!
Casey Cares has been a part of Ono for years thanks to her brother! “I learned about Casey Cares from my brother. A few years ago his baseball team ran the 5k at the Orioles stadium and I was looking for a non-profit to volunteer for and he suggested Casey Cares! I’ve been volunteering and participating in events since then, and Casey Cares has become a big part of my life!” she states.
Ono began running “after completing my first Spartan race!! I saw how running was great for my mind, body, and spirt! Additionally, I loved the community aspect of Spartan Races! Everyone was so supportive of one another, helping each other accomplish obstacles and make it to the finish line! Ever since then, running/obstacle course races have been a huge part of my life!”
For her, the best part of running or walking is “to support important causes! It’s so nice to see everyone come together through physical activity, in order to support the community! Also, I love the euphoric high that I get from running! Finally, running has made me realize I’m stronger than I think, and I can accomplish the goals I set for myself!”
Ono knows to always be prepared when it comes to running or walking! “I can’t run without my camelbak, snacks, and good music! Also, I can’t run without my favorite people by my side!” she says.
When it comes to running, Ono has learned about herself in terms of mental and physical wellness. She advises anyone looking to begin running to “take it a day at a time, and really listen to your body! Push yourself some, but always pay attention to how you’re feeling and what your normal is!”
She adds, “Not too long ago, I was really sick and thought I wasn’t going to make it. I was in the hospital and I could barely walk due to abdominal pain. I’m feeling a lot better now, and can’t wait to improve even more! Since being sick/still recovering, my goals have changed. I’m not able to run as much or as far distances, and I mostly walk races. Even though things look very different from a few years ago, I’m making the best of my current situation! Getting better and slowly but surely easing back into running has reminded me about the ups and downs of life. Also, it reminds me how important community/support is, and the power of spreading love to everyone because you never know what obstacles people are going through.”
Ono concludes, “One of my biggest passions is bringing people together, and being part of the 5k committee has been such a rewarding experience! I’m super excited to lace up my running shoes & run/walk for this kiddos!”
Ssign up for Casey Cares 15th Annual 5K/1-Mile Walk on August 3rd! T-shirt deadline is July 13th – tap here!
We’re back this year with our 5K mini-series, “Every Runner Has a Reason!” Today, we’re featuring Tony and his motivation for participating in the Casey Cares 5K.
Tony’s running journey began because he “wanted a way to cope after working long hours during the pandemic.” He heard about the Casey Cares Foundation through a longtime friend in Baltimore and thought “a 5K through the Baltimore Zoo would be a fun experience!”
His favorite part of running is that “it’s challenging, and it makes me want to push myself to find out how far I’ll go.” Tony adds that he can’t run without his phone because he “would be lost in the woods without it!”
Tony’s advice for new runners is to remember that “it’s a journey that’s meant to have highs and lows. Enjoy the process and have fun!”
Thank you Tony for supporting the critically ill children in our programs through your 5K participation! Grab your phone like Tony and sign up for Casey Cares 15th Annual 5K/1-Mile Walk on August 3rd! T-shirt deadline is July 13th – tap here!
