Thurmont’s 4th Annual Gateway to the Cure

(10/1) Thurmont will kick-off their Fourth Annual Gateway to the Cure Campaign on October 1, and will continue through the entire month of October. In 2014, the town of Thurmont began the Gateway to the Cure Campaign to spread awareness about breast cancer in order to support the Patty Hurwitz Fund at Frederick Memorial Hospital.

The Patty Hurwitz Fund at Frederick Memorial Hospital was created in 1999 by Jeff and Patty Hurwitz soon after Patty was diagnosed with breast cancer. The goal of the fund is to provide patients with the best options in early detection and treatment of breast cancer without having to travel long distances to receive treatment.

The town’s residents and businesses jumped into the campaign enthusiastically and it has been a great success, raising $4,700 in 2014, $10,000 in 2015, and $14,400 in 2016. Chief Administrative Officer Jim Humerick remarked, "We are very appreciative that our residents and businesses have stepped up to make this annual event such a success. It's a great cause that’s supported by an equal amount of great people in Thurmont!"

The campaign has grown over the past three years, and will surely continue to grow as the residents and businesses have shown overwhelming support for the cause. Over thirty-five generous businesses run in-store promotions or contribute a donation to the cause.

As in prior years, pink light bulbs will be sold to allow residents to show their support by turning on their Pink every evening in the month. Pink light bulbs will be available at the Ace Hardware and Hobbs Hardware. Moser Manor is the perfect example of supporting the cause as the entire Manor turned their Pink on every night in the previous three years" says Vickie Grinder, Economic Development Manager. In addition, the Town Office will be selling Gateway to the Cure tote bags, pink pinwheels, magnets, and T-shirts.

This year will also mark the third year for the Gateway to the Cure 5K, and is expected to be even better this year. The idea for the 5k came from Town Chief Administrative Officer Jim Humerick, who wanted do something different for the second annual Gateway to the Cure. Last year, participants and supporters showed up to the event adorned in all sorts of pink gear to run or walk the 5k.

Mayor John Kinnaird supported the event with pink shoes, beard and hair. Commissioner Wes Hamrick wore a snazzy pair of pink glittery disco high heels while Commissioner Hooper chose a pair of pink flats with bows to wear to the event. The showstopper was Commissioner Marty Burns who rose to a challenge and wore pink tutu, and in doing so raised collected additional funds for Gateway to the Cure.

Gateway to the Cure 5k will be held at Eyler Road Park on October 21st. The event starts at 8 a.m., with registration beginning at 7 a.m.. The cost is $35. You can pre-registration at www.gatewaytothecure5K.com. If you register online, the cost is only $25 per person, but will cost $35 per person if you choose to register on site that morning. T-shirts are available for every participant who signs up in advance.

Come on Northern Frederick County! Turn Your Pink On!