Participants show their support during the Lung Legacy 5K run despite challenging weather conditions.
The Lung Legacy 5K run took place at Millennium Park to raise funds and awareness for the COPD Foundation, honoring the memory of Michelle Walker who passed away from lung cancer. Despite poor weather, participants showed support for lung health initiatives. Organized by Austin and Alex Pollock, the event highlights their creation, the Reel Mate Remote, designed to assist those using supplemental oxygen. The community event also remembers Dane Van Ells, showcasing the importance of togetherness in facing health challenges and honoring legacies.
Walker, Michigan – The Lung Legacy 5K run took place at Millennium Park on October 21, 2023, to raise funds and awareness for the COPD Foundation. This year marked the second annual event, which honors the memory of Michelle Walker, who passed away from lung cancer in October 2023. Despite adverse weather conditions, including significant rainfall, dozens of participants showed their support for the cause by participating in the run.
The event has been organized by brothers Austin and Alex Pollock, who have dedicated their efforts to supporting those affected by lung health issues. In addition to the run, they created the Reel Mate Remote, an innovative product designed to help individuals who use supplemental oxygen avoid tripping over their tubing. The remote allows users to wind up the tubing easily, making it safer and more convenient for their daily activities. This product, which emerged from their desire to assist their grandfather, is now commercially available in 49 states and has received positive feedback from customers.
Austin Pollock emphasized that the product’s goal is not just to prevent accidents but to raise awareness about lung health issues. Meanwhile, Alex Pollock expressed pride in the national impact and accessibility of their invention, highlighting the importance of supporting the community and its members.
Michelle Walker, whose life was commemorated during the run, was born on November 28, 1971, in Muskegon, Michigan. Throughout her life, she showed a remarkable commitment to her family and community. She was the beloved wife of Greg Walker and the mother of three children, Nicholas, Andrew, and Samantha. The family later moved to Highlands Ranch, Colorado, where Michelle became actively involved in her children’s education. She served as PTA president and took on roles as a cub scout and girl scout leader, reflecting her dedication to nurturing the next generation.
In addition to her volunteer work, Michelle was a preschool teacher and long-term substitute in Douglas County, showing a passion for children’s educational milestones. She was also a member of the Highlands Ranch Concert Band, and took on the responsibilities of Concert Manager, showcasing her love for music.
Michelle passed away at the age of 51 on October 10, 2023. A memorial service is scheduled for November 4, 2023, to honor her memory, during which family and friends will gather to celebrate her life and contributions. To further assist her family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe page has been established in her memory.
The event also pays homage to Dane Van Ells, a young man who aspired to work with the Michigan State Police but faced a challenging battle with a rare brain cancer known as DIPG. After being diagnosed, he lived far beyond his expected prognosis, demonstrating courage and resilience in the face of adversity. During this time, he received treatment at the University of Michigan and participated in a risky biopsy to help address his condition.
Support from fellow officers and community members culminated in fundraising efforts for his treatment at the Burzynski Clinic in Houston. Van Ells married in May 2021 and welcomed a daughter shortly after. Sadly, he passed away on April 5, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. A funeral service for him was scheduled on April 13, 2023, and his family requests memorial contributions to support his daughter’s future.
As the community continues to come together for events like the Lung Legacy 5K run and to remember individuals like Michelle Walker and Dane Van Ells, the impact of compassion and support remains evident. These gatherings not only celebrate life but also raise awareness for important health issues, ensuring that the legacies of those lost are honored and remembered.
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