The fourth annual Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center ‘Walk of Hope’ will take place this year, but those behind the scenes have put a spin on how registrants can still participate. As the coronavirus crisis continues to be at the forefront of problems facing the community, this year the walk will be ‘Virtual Walk.’ This adjustment will allow advocates to continue supporting Michelle’s Place.

Participants in the fourth annual Michelle’s Place ‘Walk of Hope’ are being asked to share their campaigns via social media platforms. Valley News/Courtesy photo

“We want to provide an opportunity for the community to still be part of something together, even when we are apart,” Kim Gerrish, executive director of Michelle’s Place, said. “We really didn’t want to cancel our events, but the virus is forcing us to change the way we are doing things. So, we didn’t cancel it; we are just adapting and doing it differently.”

The center would love to see their regular supporters be able to participate in the walk, so they are asking that people walk during the week of May 10-16 and share their campaign/walk via social media platforms. People can walk at their own pace for whatever distance they choose and at whatever location they want.

The Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center is looking for supporters to participate in their ‘Virtual Walk’ during the week of May 10. Valley News/Courtesy photo

“We are asking our friends and supporters to rally their friends, family and networks to participate,” Gerrish said. “By becoming a FUNdraiser for Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center, you will help individuals and families affected by cancer, and you’ll help your friends feel good about doing good. It is easy to do, and it’s fun. We will even give you all the tools you’ll need to make a difference.”

Supporters can start raising money now through Saturday, May 16, at 11 p.m.

“We also want people to take pics and videos of them walking, Gerrish said. “Wherever they are walking, simply tag us and include the hashtags #walkwithmp and #walkofhope.”

The fourth annual Michelle’s Place Cancer Resource Center ‘Walk of Hope’ will be a ‘Virtual Walk’ this year. Valley News/Courtesy photo

Despite the center being closed right now, Gerrish said she does want people to know that the center and its workers are still available to help.

“We are available by phone and people can call (951) 699-5455 or email at info@michellesplace.org. Also, check out our support groups this month as we go virtual. And, if you are a cancer patient who needs food or transportation, we can help, please call us.”

For more details, call (951) 699-5455, visit the website www.michellesplace.org or email events@michellesplace.org or info@michellesplace.org.

JP Raineri can be reached via email at sports@reedermedia.com.

JP Raineri
JP Raineri

JP is an award-winning multimedia journalist, and head of the Sports Department for the Valley News. Over his time in the Temecula Valley, JP, a former Southwestern League head baseball coach, was also an on-air radio personality at Q103.3, KATY 101.3, Hot 103.9, and was a television host for the Outdoor Channel. When not covering local, or national sports, JP also serves as an Associate Baseball Scout with NSR.