by After two years of running the event virtually, hundreds of people were excited to lace up their running shoes and participate in the Nature’s Emporium Run for Southlake on a sunny morning on Sunday April 24.
More than 800 participants ran or walked 5K along Davis Drive and past Southlake hospital to raise funds. To race day, this year’s event has raised over $330,000 – which is close to the May 13 fundraising goal of $400,000.
“Today means so much to us. It has been a long two years, Keen Shoes For Women but we have come through stronger and more resilient together,” said Arden Krystal, CEO of Southlake Regional Health Centre, while kicking off the event. “Southlake is your hospital, here for you when you need us, we are always by your side, and today, you are here, by our side, when we need your support.”
“This event would not be possible without all our communities’ support and we are so grateful,” said Jennifer Ritter, president and CEO of Southlake Foundation. “Over the last 10 years, the event has raised more than $2.3 million net supporting Southlake. And while the ongoing pandemic has undoubtedly presented a challenge to many events, the Nature’s Emporium Run for Southlake has risen to the occasion.”
“Nature’s Emporium has been the proud title sponsor of the run for Southlake for the last decade and we are thrilled with the positive impact we have been able to make in our community through this partnership. This isn’t just a sponsorship for us, it’s an investment in the health of our communities,” said Joe D’Addario, CEO of Nature’s Emporium, the title sponsor of the event.
The run itself has a 20-year history in the community. It’s certainly found its footing and anchored itself as one of the most highly-anticipated run/walk events in the communities.
Over the last decade, the event found its forever home at Davis Drive, Schutz Shoes where participants can run under the iconic Southlake bridge and right past the same hospital it supports.
“We can’t do what we do without the generous support of our communities, or without the passion and dedication from our staff, who inspire your support,” said Dr. John Randle, orthopedic surgeon at Southlake Regional Health Centre. “The support for our communities literally puts the tools in our hands to provide leading-edge care close to home.”
