When cancer patients complete treatment, they often ring a bell in celebration. Hundreds of bells will ring loudly May 20 during the Wheatlake Wellness Walk & 5K as each participant will receive a bell to help mark the 10th anniversary of the opening of  the Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center in Reed City.

 

“The annual walk and run supports the wellness center at the cancer center, so it’s fitting to
commemorate the 10th anniversary during this year’s event,” said race organizer John Norton.
“We have special cowbells for everyone to keep as a memento and to ring while cheering on
walkers and runners.”

Registration to participate is open at spectrumhealth.org/wheatlake-races.

The race/walk will start and end near the Big Rapids Bandshell behind the middle school in Big
Rapids. The 5K route will head north into Northend Riverside Park and participants will enjoy
scenic views along the Big Rapids Riverwalk.

“We’re delighted with the number of early registrations – we expect a great turnout,” Norton
said. “For many, this event is an annual reunion in the fight against cancer where the
community comes together to encourage those on their cancer journey.”

Event proceeds benefit the wellness center at the Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer
Center in Reed City, part of Corewell Health. The wellness center includes a resource library,
beauty boutique, gift shop and integrative therapy rooms. Patients have access to services
such as massages, acupuncture, reflexology, wig fittings and more. The center hosts support
groups and educational sessions to assist patients on the road to recovery.

All wellness services are provided free of charge thanks to generous donations to the Wellness
Fund and from events such as the Wheatlake run/walk.

The 5K race is timed with medals for top male and female finishers in 12 age divisions.
Registration is $35 for the run, $30 for wellness walk and $25 for a virtual option, available for
those who wish to participate individually on their own time.

All entries include a 2023 Wheatlake Wellness Walk & 5K race shirt. Kids shirts are also
available for $10. Children are welcome to participate with registered adults in the 5K run or walk. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcomed. Memorial and encouragement stakes will once again be available for $10 and will be displayed along the start line to honor loved ones.

Packet pick up and late registration will be from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. May 19 at Big Rapids
Hospital Professional Office Building.

You can register or purchase stakes online at spectrumhealth.org/wheatlake-races.