CEDAR CITY — Simply A Miracle, a local organization, will soon hold its annual run to raise funds that will help local families with costs relating to the loss of a child.
On Sept. 19, supporters are invited to attend the 2020 Simply A Miracle 5K and 1-Mile Fundraiser Run at Bicentennial Park, 660 W. 1045 North in Cedar City, starting at 9 a.m. 100% of the funds raised at this annual charity event go to financially support families who have lost children.
When Adam and Amanda Wilcock went into labor and delivery at the Cedar City Hospital in January 2018, they expected to leave the hospital with a healthy baby boy. Instead, their son, Sam, passed away from unexpected complications and they left the hospital with a stuffed animal and a hefty medical bill. The Wilcocks say they were blessed with miracles and support, emotionally and financially, but know many families in similar situations have different circumstances.
“We only had one life flight and one day in the NICU, were insured, had savings and got lots of support, and the bills were still stressful and overwhelming. So many families who lose children have it much worse financially,” Amanda Wilcock said.
Inspired by the support they received after their son’s passing, the Wilcocks started an organization, Simply A Miracle, to provide financial assistance to other families who lose children. They started by holding a fundraiser race that has become this annual event. It has already become a meaningful tradition for many locals.
“The Simply A Miracle race is a family event we really look forward to! We love to gather with others who have felt the loss of a child and support those families,” said Alauna Christensen, another Cedar City resident. “We come together in an incredible community raising money for those in need of financial help as we continue to heal emotionally. The Simply A Miracle race is the perfect way to help families of perfect sweet babes gone too soon!”
According to March of Dimes, in Utah in 2017, 286 infants died before their first birthday. In addition, there are thousands of other children that die before birth or after their first birthday. Most people have been touched in some way by the tragedy of child loss, and the Simply A Miracle fundraising race is a meaningful way to honor those loved ones who have passed and support families experiencing this struggle.
Masks and social distancing are encouraged for those attending the race in person, and for those who do not attend there are both donation and virtual race options. More information, registration and donation options can be found on the event website or by visiting Simply A Miracle’s Facebook page.
Simply A Miracle is currently in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt status. For more information, contact Amanda Wilcock at [email protected].