I’m excited to invite you to join Team Parker Strong in the upcoming Gilda’s Run/Walk 2025! This meaningful event supports Gilda’s Club Madison, an organization that provides critical cancer support services—free of charge—to people of all ages and at every stage of their cancer journey, along with their families and loved ones.
With the kind blessing of the Bolton Family, we’ve formed this team to honor their courageous warrior, Parker Bolton, and the many people we love who have faced and are currently facing cancer. Many of you are familiar with Parker's incredible strength, resilience, and unwavering perseverance throughout his battle with cancer. While Parker hasn’t directly received services from Gilda’s Club, he has been uplifted by amazing organizations like Lurie Children’s Hospital, Cal’s Angels, Make-A-Wish, and, most importantly, the incredible network of family and friends who surround him.
My mom is a cancer survivor and is my best friend, greatest confidant, partner in crime, and my biggest motivator to make a difference in the cancer community. In true Gilda fashion, she maintains her humor, positivity, and strength through the ups and downs of this journey. With her incredible 25+ year career in hospice, I have seen firsthand the impact she makes on those going through the hardest times. I am honored to make a change in my community for those facing cancer, to ensure they have the support they need to live their fullest life while on a cancer journey. Mama, I hope one day I can give even a small portion of the light you have given me back to this world.
Sadly, many individuals facing cancer in Wisconsin don’t have the same robust support system. That's why we’re participating in this event—not just for Parker, but for all those in need of the care and compassion that organizations like Gilda’s Club provide.
How You Can Help:
- Join Team Parker Strong: Whether you choose to run or walk, your participation will help raise awareness and support for those who need it most.
- Virtual Participants: If you’re not local to Wisconsin, you can still take part! Register as a virtual 5K runner or 2-mile walker. Complete your steps on your own time and share your journey on social media by tagging Gilda’s Club Madison and using the hashtag #gildasrunwalk.
- Make a Donation: If you’re unable to participate, please consider donating to Team Parker Strong. Every contribution makes a difference.
- Find your "Why": Where can you make a difference locally in your community and for those you love? Cancer support doesn't stop after a fundraising event. Find an organization close to you and close to your heart, and learn of ways you can give back. Today more than ever, we have to band together to support each other.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me (Taylor) at (630) 618-9492. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you'll join us as we run and walk in honor of our warriors: Parker, JoAnne, and all those that we love who have and are fighting the good fight.
Thank you for being part of this journey!