SCRANTON, Pa. — It wasn't the medals or the podium photos that served as the primary motivation for the runners or walkers that came out to the Team Allied Services and You 5k 2 mile walk or All Abilities Walk in Scranton.
Some, like Ednabean's dream team, came to Valor Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium because of a cause close to their hearts.
"The Ednabean Dream Team we created in honor of my mother, who passed away in 2016 on Christmas Day. So we wanted to come and celebrate her because she loved purple, she loved butterflies, and, you know, she loved kids," said Heather Crawford, Scranton.
And it was the children helped by Allied Services that served as motivation for members of this year's marathon team.
"Being here makes you really know why you're doing all this, why we're raising money, why we're working so hard to run the marathon. You know, you see all the good work that Alex does. And you know, Know what we're working towards. And it's just really special to see all the children across the finish line," said Wendy Guzenski, Wyoming.
And those who signed up to walk in the 2-mile walk that was added to this year's event for the first time.
"We actually had more walkers than runners this year, which we're all about moving, whatever moving that is. So, yeah, it was fantastic," said Charlotte Wright, Assistant Vice President.
"I think it's motivational for anybody and everybody who gets to see this. And I think it's an event that really everybody should turn out," said Gary Duncan, Dunmore.
And it was the support of all these people looking to move their bodies that filled the parents of Allied patients with gratitude.
"It's a big turn out I had no idea it was going to be so big," said Lorena Benson, Hunter's mother.
And inspired patients to continue with important steps forward and how they are going to get there.
If you want to join Sunday's runners and walkers in being a champion for children at Allied Services, learn more by clicking here.