RUMFORD — The Rumford Rite Aid on Portland Street will sponsor its second annual 5K fun run and walk at 9 a.m. May 5 at Hosmer Field.

All proceeds will go to the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital and the Children’s Miracle Network.

Rite Aid employees Marie Gauvin and Jacquelyn Smith came up with the idea for the 5K last year to recognize local child Nate Gallant, who was diagnosed with leukemia.

“Our first 5K went over very well,” Gauvin said Tuesday. “We had 153 people who registered for the 5K. There were even some people who registered for the race and didn’t run or walk. They just wanted to help out by donating some money to a good cause.”

The entry fee is $20. Runners can also register the day of the race, starting at 8 a.m. The race will begin at 9 a.m.

As of Tuesday, Gauvin said, about 140 people had signed up.

“Last year, we got around 30 people who signed up on the day of the race,” she said. “That number could go even higher this year. People who want to participate can also visit active.com and register for the 5K there. We’ve had about 20 people sign up online, which is something new compared to last year.”

Gauvin said Gallant would act as the “event ambassador” again.

“Nate is doing very well right now,” she said. “He goes in for treatment about once a year, but right now, he’s doing good.”

The bibs worn by the racers and walkers will feature drawings by children at the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital in Portland, Gauvin said.

For more information, call Gauvin at 364-2612 or Smith at 364-2969.

mdaigle@sunjournal.com

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