Friends and family of a 13-year-old Guelph boy awaiting a kidney transplant are hoping locals will run or walk five kilometres to raise money for the boy.
“This is a virtual 5K event to raise money for Tyrel Thomson and his family,” says the home page for the fundraiser at www.racemenu.com/events/32121.
“While hospital expenses are covered, things like lost wages, parking, transportation, tutoring, special dietary needs, and even some medications are not,” the page states.
In an email to the Advertiser, Tyrel’s mother, Sandi Thomson, said, “We are very appreciative of all the people willing to help out!
“Unfortunately, during this desperate time for us we are actually asking, which we definitely are not that good at.”
Proceeds from the fundraiser will help the family pay for Tyrel’s thrice weekly dialysis and all his other appointments and tests.
Organizers are hoping to use any money raised to help “alleviate some of the financial strain” on Tyrel’s parents, Phil and Sandi Thomson.
The virtual fundraiser will allow participants anywhere in the world to sign up, pledge $25 and run/walk 5km – anytime before Sept. 15.
“You can run, walk, hike, cycle, ride a horse … whatever you like,” the race page states.
“Once you complete your 5K we ask that details are sent in about the date, time, and place as well as a photo(s) if possible …
“We will share this with Tyrel as a fun way to show support and cheer him on in his fight.”
For more information visit www.racemenu.com/events/32121 or the event’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/runforteamtyrel.
