Remember Mid Valley Elementary’s Blossom Boogie 5-10K?
The school is bringing it back this year, with a new name and a new cause.
Now called the Superhero 5K and 10K Fun Run, the event is a fundraiser for student Kyle McCarthy, who last year at the age of 8 was infected with a rare virus — called enterovirus — that has left him wheelchair bound and on a ventilator.
McCarthy’s physical therapy team has recommended he move from his current power wheelchair to an ultra-light wheelchair, to allow him more mobility and independence.
More movement in his arms means more strength and, hopefully, less need for the ventilator, said Principal Kim Yasui. It will also make getting in and out of cars and shops — among other places — much easier for him and his family.
The chair costs $6,000, and school staff are hopeful they will be able to raise the full amount for the chair — maybe not at the fun run alone, but “other ideas are percolating,” said Yasui.
But more importantly than his physical therapists recommending the new wheelchair, McCarthy is ready to make that step.
“We’re excited that he’s wanting to be more independent,” said Mikka Irusta, Mid Valley teacher, who is coordinating the fun run with Suzanna Titus, school speech pathologist. “He’s getting stronger, emotionally and physically, and is ready for that step. I think that’s very exciting.”
Since coming up with the idea three weeks ago, Irusta says that $1,300 has been raised, mostly donations from those unable to participate in the run.
“One year ago, this active, healthy 9-year-old boy was infected with a very rare type of virus that left him partially paralyzed and dependent on a ventilator to help him breathe,” reads the Superhero registration form. “With the help of family, friends, a terrific physical therapy team and a lot of hard work, he is slowly gaining mobility and independence.
“None of his medical team can predict for certain what long term physical challenges or limitations he will face,” it continues. “A new wheelchair will provide him with the opportunity to take the next exciting step towards independence.”
The Superhero 5K and 10K Fun Run takes place April 2 beginning at 9:30 a.m., starting and finishing at Mid Valley Elementary School, 3686 Davis Drive, Odell. Preregistration cost is $20, or $25 on the day of the event for all participants. All proceeds will go towards an ultra-light wheelchair for McCarthy. To register online, visit tinyurl.com/superherokyle, or mail preregistration forms to Mikka Irusta, c/o Mid Valley, PO Box 188, Odell, OR 97044, or drop off at the Mid Valley front office.
More information and links to registration and donation sites can be found on Facebook (keyword: Superhero 5K and 10K Fun Run).
Irusta will continue to collect donations even after the run is over.
“I’ll be here all school year!” said the fifth grade teacher.
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