More than 400 runners, walkers and supporters came out for the annual Ronald McDonald House Long Island “Walk of Love” 5K and Fun Run here on Saturday, April 25, raising more than $100,000 to support its work providing housing and care for the families of children in medical crisis.
“It’s really exciting to see this event grow over the years,” said Matt Campo, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Long Island. “This brings our entire community together, and we’re grateful to have so many of our families who we have served come back to support us.”
Teams wore custom T-shirts with team logos as they ran and walked the course, winding through the New Hyde Park neighborhood around the house. The walk included a more than 25-person squad from local restaurant Luigi’s as well as families running in support of and in memory of children who received care at nearby Cohen Children’s Hospital.
“Having a place right nearby that you can just stay here, get something to eat or shower, means a lot more than people expect,” said Fernando Mayo of Bethpage, whose daughter Savannah died 17 days after being born. He and his wife, Caitlin, stayed at the Ronald McDonald House during that time and continued to support the house. “Being so close that you can swing over to the hospital to see your child in the blink of an eye is so helpful,” he said.
The “Walk of Love” is Ronald McDonald House Long Island’s largest community event of the year.
The day also included a visit from Islanders mascot “Sparky” plus games, food and a bounce house for kids.
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Source: LI Press
