Virtual format for St. Margaret Foundation 5K brings in record-breaking proceeds

In the 33 years since the St. Margaret Foundation started its spring 5K fundraiser, a team of “Couch Potatoes” has brought in a staggering $200,000 to help needy hospital patients.

Board Member Bill Simpson laughed that his wife named the team after his penchant for falling asleep on the couch, remote in hand.

“We wanted to add a little humor and have some fun with this fundraiser,” Simpson said. “We thought we could encourage others to create a fundraising page, too.”

Simpson, of Aspinwall, brought in more than $33,000 in pledges for this year’s Brian Demchak Hope Challenge, presented virtually from May 16-22.

It helped push the total proceeds over $129,000 — a record amount for the fundraiser, foundation officials said.

“We are inspired to see how filling in the gaps with hope takes on new meaning when we let our friends do it their way,” foundation President Mary Lee Gannon said.

Participants surveyed after the three-mile race said they enjoyed this year’s virtual format that allowed them to swim, walk or bike the distance.

“It was really fun to see how they created events that fit their lifestyles and interests,” Gannon said.

“We had people who took park walks, vacation hikes in Yosemite and family runs with picnics.”

Each participant received a finisher’s medal and a race T-shirt.

Proceeds from the spring fundraiser are used to help patients with transportation, medication and other support.

“Because being sick is difficult enough without having to worry if you have a ride to chemotherapy or treatment, or if you can pay for expensive medicine, home oxygen, walkers and other items you need that aren’t covered by insurance,” Gannon said.

Last year’s race brought in $84,070 and the previous year brought in $93,676.

The race was renamed several years ago in honor of the late Brian Demchak and his mother, Marie Louise (Tina) Demchak, who made it a family tradition to run in the foundation’s 5K.

The foundation also has a fund in Brian Demchak’s memory that helps to provide medical devices, insulin and transportation to and from treatment.

Money also supports the foundation’s Patient Food Pantry and the Clothes Closet for patients.

“The St. Margaret family is honored to hold this race in Brian’s memory,” Gannon said.

“Brian was dedicated to health and fitness, a regular at our race and a member of our hospital community.”

Simpson encouraged fellow residents to look ahead to next year. He said it is an easy way to support the community.

“It’s nice to do something together and you can raise a fairly significant amount of money with zero expense,” he said.

“It’s a nice way to engage my entire family, including the pets. We’ve been doing it so long that we’re on dog number three that has participated.”