TUNKHANNOCK, Pa. — The sun shining light on Lake Carey, the Tunkhannock High School Marching Band providing a beat, and supporters ready to run provided the perfect way to celebrate the life of Kara Cook.
"This is the best celebration that we can have," said Alisha Cook, Kara's mother.
"We're here celebrating the memory of an awesome pediatric patient from Allied Services, Kara Cook. The Run to Remember has been going on for seven years to raise money for Allied Pediatric Services," said Jim Brogna, Vice President of Allied Services.
"It's a special day today because this is the year that Kara would have graduated high school," said Adam Edwards, race director.
Kara was born with congenital heart disease and then, in her 11 years, went through three battles with different cancers.
"Can't even believe where it came from. Looking back now that you see all these signs, do your checks, don't take anything for granted. Really, because you really don't know," said Alisha.
Race Organizer Adam Edwards said in the event's seven years, this is the largest turnout of the Tunkhannock community and beyond to honor Kara's memory.
"It really means everything to us. I mean, we doubled what we did last year in our turnout, and it's just a wonderful special day," said Edwards.
"It's really overwhelming from the bottom of our hearts really great to have this community represent. The memory of our daughter makes her know that she's here to make the sunshine every year," added Alisha.
More than 260 runners came out for this event and raised $16,000 for Allied Services in Kara's memory.