5K for Caleb

To the Editor:

A group of local citizens will be holding a 5K run/walk and silent auction to raise money to assist Caleb Doyle and his family with expenses associated with his long-term care. The event will be held on April 6^th, in Raymond at the Carriage Museum/Public Market. The silent auction will be held from 9 a.m. – noon and the 5K run/walk will begin at 10 a.m. We want this to be a huge community event!

There will be free refreshments for participants and face painting for the kids. We have established an account at the Bank of the Pacific for all donations and funds received, which will be directly distributed to Caleb’s family following the event. Even if people do not wish to participate in the 5K, the silent auction items are worth coming down to bid on. We have received very generous auction donations!

Caleb was severely burned over 30 percent of his body while helping a neighbor with yard work. Caleb has been at Harborview for more than one month recovering from his injuries and is making slow but steady progress. His story has been featured on all of the Seattle news stations. As you can imagine, medical expenses as well as lodging, food, and fuel expenses for the family (who is more than two hours away from the hospital) can be tremendous. Any monetary donations or donations of items that can assist in our fundraising would be greatly appreciated.

Some of the silent auction items we have received so far include prom package (valued at $450); sailing tour on the Lady Washington (tickets valued at $120 each); Driver’s Ed Class (valued at $360 from Cascade Driving School); King 5 News VIP tour for up to 12 people; multiple gift certificates and theme baskets from local businesses including restaurants, massage therapists, stylists, etc.

Some local businesses are also offering special discounts the day of the 5K for participants with food specials, merchandise discounts, etc. A local KDUX DJ also contacted us and volunteered to DJ our event.

Caleb is a wonderful young man who has made quite an impression with many people in our community. We will be videotaping the event to create a DVD for Caleb to show him how much support he has and to encourage him in his recovery. We have received an outpouring of support so far and hope that it will be a successful event!

Colleen Nissell,

Raymond, Wash.