Daniel’s Race Celebrates a Decade
Daniel Myslivecek’s friends wanted to create something that could help Daniel and his family with medical costs, but, in the end, “Daniel’s Race” has touched many other families, including those at UR Medicine’s Golisano Children’s Hospital.
Daniel’s Race was created in 2006 by Greg Selke as part of his Eagle Scout project and in honor of his good friend Daniel. Daniel, a freshman at Churchville-Chili High School, was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic melanoma in May 2004 and was given only nine months to live.
Despite going through treatments, Daniel was able to run and complete the race in April 2006. Many of his friends from his soccer and tennis teams were there to cheer him on to the finish line. After bravely fighting the disease for nearly three years, Daniel passed away on July 12, 2006.
After being the main organizer of the race for four years, Selke graduated high school and went to college, making the Mysliveceks the new directors in 2010. After using the first few years’ funds to pay for their own medical expenses, Daniel’s parents wanted to recreate the mission of the race and give back to other families and organizations that provided care and services for them when they needed it most.
The mission of Daniel’s Race is “to honor Daniel’s memory by sharing hope with local families caring for children with a life threatening illness.”
Golisano Children’s Hospital has benefited from the race for a number of years, totaling more than $6,000 in support of sick and injured kids in the region.
Totals raised last year, combined with the race’s 10th anniversary event April 11, will go toward a recent $25,000 commitment from the Daniel’s Race committee toward the new Golisano Children’s Hospital building. Committee members hope to name a nursing alcove or help fund some of the interactive interior designs of the hospital.
“Daniel’s Race has given back to Golisano Children’s Hospital for several years and we greatly appreciate all of its support,” said Stephanie Sheets, assistant director of community affairs. “The group’s donations have and will continue to touch the lives of many patients and their families.”
The 10th annual Daniel’s Race will kick off at 10 a.m. on the Churchville-Chili High School track on April 11. More than a 5K/walk, the event will also include a special celebration for all participants. To honor a decade of support and Daniel’s memory, activities will include a memorial ceremony with balloons, a chicken barbeque, and a variety of carnival-style games and treats.
To register for the race and/or make a donation to Golisano Children’s Hospital in Daniel’s memory, please go to www.daniels5k.com.*
*The Churchville-Chili flat-fast track is a 5,000 meter New York State and USA Track and Field certified course. For those interested, the NYS certification number is NY08101KL.