‘Believe in something, let your heart follow’
The following is Jonathan Kelley’s speech to all the participants just prior to Zach’s Run, held Sept. 8 at the University of Maine at Presque Isle.
“Wow! I am simply at a loss for words at the response to one simple request on Facebook to help a single mother and her 10-year-old son, when a disease like cancer enters their lives. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
As you all know, Zach’s Run is to show Zachary Gagnon, and his mother, the support of not only his family, friends and community; but also that of people I’ve never met, you’ve never met and he’s never met. It is also to give this beautifully-spirited young man the courage and hope to face the greatest battle in his young life.
All of you deserve a huge round of applause for hearing the call to support Zachary, and taking the time to make a difference. It is too easy to sit on the couch and simply say ‘poor kid.’ It is because of people like yourselves, that together we can create change and have a positive impact on the lives of those around us, whether we know them or not. Again, thank you so much!
I would just like to say to all of you, especially those of you who are in elementary, middle or high school, that if you believe in something that creates a deep passion within you, let your heart follow. Put your time, effort and energy into it, to make a difference. All it takes is a start, and that is you!
Finally, Zach’s Run is meant to be a celebration of Zachary’s spirit. He was to compete today in the youth triathlon — swimming, biking and running with purpose, love and kindness in his heart, and seen in his radiant smile. So, as you either run competively, jog for the fun of it, or walk because you can, keep in mind that’s the same spirit Zachary has. And whether you currently have cancer, are a cancer survivor, know someone with cancer or have lost a loved one to cancer, this event is for you, too. Together, we can make a difference, one dollar at a time, one smile at a time and one step at a time.
Thank you for supporting Zach’s Run.”
