Sully's Monster Dash draws over 100 participants in second year

Brian Lowe and his son Sully head towards the finish line at "Sully's Monster Dash" last Saturday morning.

Over 100 runners and walkers, many in costume, hit the trails at Holiday Beach Conservation Area all to support children in need of medical help.

Sully’s Giving Back presented the second annual Sully’s Monster Dash Oct. 24 to benefit the Children’s Health Foundation. The Children’s Health Foundation supports the Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre, a regional children’s hospital serving families across southwestern Ontario, including Windsor-Essex.

The family of young Sully Lowe help oversee the event as well as the Sully’s Giving Back initiative with parents Kait and Brian helping to organize last Saturday morning’s race.

“They are very near and dear to our hearts because of Sully’s care,” said Kait.

Funds collected will help support programs at Children’s Hospital as well as research. Kait said the programs include Child Life program, one that Sully has used over his young life.

The main 5K run leaves from the starting line.

Kait praised Dr. Andreana Butter, who has overseen Sully’s care including conducting several surgeries on him. Kait said they would like to see her get input over where the proceeds go.

There were 109 registered as of first thing Saturday morning, up from last year’s Sully’s Monster Dash. Kait said they are grateful for all of the support, adding many families are like their family in that they need the Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre.

“Their impact is felt very significantly in this area,” said Kait.

Jennifer Baxter, director of community relations and events with the Children’s Health Foundation, came down from London for the event. She said they are looking to increase their exposure in Essex County and Windsor. In addition to Child Life, she said proceeds will also benefit music and art therapy programs and towards a fourth working dog in the hospital.

Kait Lowe presents Halloween gift bags to Jennifer Baxter of the Children's Health Foundation, with the bags created with the aid of Canadian Tire.

“This is fantastic,” Baxter said, as she surveyed the crowd at Holiday Beach Conservation Area. “I love seeing the community coming together to support the family and to support the Children’s Health Foundation.”

Baxter added she contacted the Lowe family about doing an event and they jumped on the opportunity.

If people want to donate to the foundation, they can visit www.childhealth.ca.

Sully’s Monster Dash also extended its thanks to all supporters and sponsors. As part of the event, gift bags were presented to Baxter that were created in partnership with Canadian Tire Amherstburg. 

Sully's Monster Dash draws over 100 participants in second year

By Ron Giofu