Charity walk/run will support local children battling cancer

Every year, Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada recognizes local children who have shown courage, spirit and bravery in dealing with cancer. The nonprofit organization names them Superhero Ambassadors for the Superhero 5K with Chet Buchanan, its biggest event of the year and major fundraiser at Mountain’s Edge. These inspiring children, along with many others and their families, depend on the support of Candlelighters for emotional assistance, quality of life and financial support programs.

Tomier Asraf, 15, and Briaunna Wise, 4, were selected to be this year’s Superhero Ambassadors. Valerie Cruz, 15, who passed away in 2011, was named the Superhero Angel Ambassador and continues to inspire others.

In July 2015, Tomier was diagnosed with Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis, a life-threatening immunodeficiency, and has been battling the disease with the support of his three older siblings and parents. He is a Chicago Bears fan, but his favorite sport is wrestling; and he never turns down an invitation to Buffalo Wild Wings.

Briaunna has been fighting Optic Glioma since May 2015 with the support of her parents and two cats. Though tumors affect her optic nerves, she doesn’t let it stop her from enjoying painting, reading and coloring.

To honor the ambassadors and support them and Candlelighters, sign up to race or walk during the 5K, cheer on participants and dress up as a superhero. The event is Sept. 10 at Exploration Park in Mountain’s Edge. The 80-acre park is at 9600 S. Buffalo Drive, just south of Blue Diamond and the master-planned community’s entrance.

In addition to the race and walk, other Superhero festivities will include a bounce house and games, bone marrow drive hosted by Be The Match, awards ceremony for timed runners, food, refreshments and raffle prizes. Attendees also can enjoy the great amenities at Exploration Park, including picnic areas, playgrounds, water play area, walking trails, replicas of a Western town and Native American village and archaeology dig site.

Funds raised from the event help children with cancer and their families cover medical and prescription co-pays, mortgage/rent, utilities, local transportation and travel for treatment, scholarships and funerals; counseling; and other programs to lift the spirits of patients and family members.

Event day registration begins at 6:30 a.m. The race starts at 8 a.m. with the walk at 8:15 a.m., and festivities go until 11 a.m. For advance registration and related dates, information and ways to get involved, visit candlelightersnv.org or call 702-737-1919.

The Superhero 5K with Chet Buchanan is sponsored by Centennial Toyota, Mountain’s Edge and The Revolution FMO.

After the event, attendees are invited to explore Mountain’s Edge and see why it’s been among the nation’s top sellers. Stop by the information center near the community entrance, and tour models by top builders including CalAtlantic Homes/Pulte Homes, Century Communities, KB Home and Lennar. For information, call 702-898-5777 or visit mountainsedge.com.