Girl's Cancer Fight Inspires Run To Raise Funds
A 5K race in Kailee Vance's honor will pass by her home May 10.
(Kailee's Run Web Site)
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Living in LoCo is Erica Garman's blog devoted to all things interesting in Loudoun County. You can find it athttp:/
Last fall, 6-year-old Kailee Vance received a diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer that occurs most often in children.
Soon after the diagnosis, a family friend, Catherine Lilley of Ashburn, wanted to help.
"Anytime you see friends in pain it is difficult," she said. "There's so much we don't have control over, but the one thing I do have control over is to help the family in any way I can."
Lilley and her boyfriend are big runners and have participated in several 5Ks -- and the idea for "Kailee's Run/Walk" was born.
On May 10 at 8 a.m., a 5K race will be held to benefit the Vance family and to help pay for Kailee's medical expenses. The event will start at Newton-Lee Elementary, the school Kailee attended before her chemotherapy treatments kept her at home.
"The route was planned so runners will go by Kailee's house twice during the race. Just in case she's not up to going outside that day, she can still look out her window and see us," Lilley said.
I spoke with Kailee's mom, Kari Vance, on Friday. Kailee's illness has undoubtedly taken a toll on her family, both emotionally and financially, but Vance's voice did not project worry.
"Kailee's doing great considering what she's going through. She's got her good days and her low days," she said.
Every Monday, Kailee goes to Georgetown University Hospital for chemotherapy, and once a month she spends the night at the hospital for a more powerful dosage.
The Vances are also busy with two younger daughters, ages 3 and 1.
Organizers of Kailee's Run/Walk are selling raffle tickets for a chance to win goods and services donated by area businesses. To register for the 5K, buy raffle tickets or donate, go to http:/
