BK5K Family Run for Child Life set for Oct. 7

MALVERN » “Nobody likes being in the hospital, especially kids,” says Fox 29’s Bob Kelly. The kids are sick, scared and confused while their families are anxious and overwhelmed. Child Life specialists support the entire family during these stressful times and one of the ways they help is with Child Life Activities and Playrooms. Kids and families can participate in arts & crafts, play with toys, games and video games like they would at home, in a playroom away from medical procedures, equipment and exams.

The BK5K got started as a way to bring awareness to families living on the Main Line, in Chester County and Delaware County, that the Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children is so close and easily accessible, just a short drive right off of Route 202. Also, to bring awareness to what the Child Life Program does to support kids and families. The Kellys’ son Austin needed medical attention at 8 weeks old. They experienced first-hand what so many other parents face when their child is sick. Because of their experience the BK5K got started in 2016 with 200 participants.

This year, the event is Saturday Oct. 7, at East Goshen Park, 1661 Paoli Pike, West Chester. The fun begins at 10 a.m. with the Philly Phanatic cheering on the kids as they run around the small inner loop of the park, through themed stations involving confetti, bubbles, super heroes and more.

The Adult 5K kicks off at 10:15 a.m. immediately following the kids run. Participants can run/ walk around the East Goshen Park Trail, 3 loops = 5K. This is an official sanctioned run.

After the race, stroll the park with your family and enjoy the Fall Festival complete with music, pumpkin painting, face painting, Farm-style obstacle course and rides on the Wells Fargo stagecoach! Register at bk5kfamilyrun.org and have fun while helping to build a playroom & sensory place for kids at Nemours A.I. du Pont Hospital for Children.

Sponsor and vendor information can be found at bk5kfamilyrun.org

For information, contact Bob Kelly at 484-402-6643 or email at bk5kfamilyrun@gmail.com.

Rides on the Wells Fargo stagecoach will be part of the fun.

The Phillie Phanatic will be cheering on the young runners.