PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The 22nd annual Parkway Run and Walk on Sunday drew thousands of supporters, each with the goal of taking down childhood cancer one step at a time.
Katherine Doyle was out there to do what she could for her 3-year-old daughter, Caroline, who has leukemia.
"By the time she's finished treatment, she'll spend more of her time, of her life, on chemo than off," Doyle said.
Her family took part in the special event that, every year, raises money for cancer research and care at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
"This is going to be a day that is going to fill us up with hope and support, and we'll lean on this day when we're in the thick of it in winter, we're hospitalized, and we just know that all the people see us and see her and want better for her."
Doyle, who is a pediatrician and did her residency at CHOP, says the institution has always had a special place in her heart, and events like the 5K run and 2K walk let her show her appreciation.
"We've raised over $21,000 so far, and it just feels good to give back," she said.
Amanda Higgins with CHOP helped organize the Parkway Run and Walk.
"Today is one of my most favorite days of the year," said Higgins
She says the day is about more than just raising money. It's also a support system for families going through trying times.
"Today is a big family reunion for them. It is so meaningful to see other families who have gone through similar experiences and also see the clinical staff out of the hospital walls. They become family with one another, so seeing them in a space like this today is the most meaningful experience."
Higgins said there were about 275 teams — each one created in honor of, or in memory of, children treated in the cancer center at CHOP — which collectively raised more than $1.9 million.
"Whether they're here celebrating someone today or they're here with us honoring their loved ones who can't be here with us today because they passed, they're the true superheroes."
