The Sadie Smile Foundation held its 5th Annual Sadie’s Race where more than 160 runners came out on a rainy Virginia morning to run, walk, and help to raise money for Smile Train.
Sadie’s race was created in memory of Sadie Ablard, who passed away at the age of five. Even at her young age, Sadie connected with Smile Train after she saw a photo of a boy with a cleft lip at her local mall. That Christmas, she asked for donations to Smile Train instead of gifts and raised enough for two new smiles.
In the spirt of Sadie’s generosity, her mother, Sara Parella, began raising money for Smile Train with the goal of raising one ‘smile surgery’ for each day Sadie was alive. With the $16,000 raised at this year’s event, Sadie Smile Foundation has nearly passed the halfway mark to their goal.
Special guests at the race this year included Miss Virginia USA 2016 Desiree Williamsand Miss Virginia Teen USA 2016 Gracyn Blackmore. The two reigning titleholders helped at Smile Train’s informational booth and ceremonially started the 5K race.
Caitlin Roarke, Smile Train, Manager, Community Relations, attended the event and said, “The impact that the Sadie Smile Foundation has had on Smile Train and the Purcellville community is so amazing. With activities like face painting, balloon animals, and a petting zoo there was a smile on every face. It is such a celebration of Sadie’s life.”
