Katie Leiby (center) with her husband and her mother.

When thinking about the question “What motivates me?” for the Hope & Heroes Walk the obvious answer would be my job. As Events & Outreach Manager at Hope & Heroes, I’m the person behind all of our major events and most of our community events.  But, to me, the Walk is so much more than just a part of my job. Over the last four years I have gotten to know so many of our patients, families, doctors and nurses, and I am continuously inspired by their spirit and endurance and am honored to be welcomed into their lives and experiences.

I started at Hope & Heroes in April of 2011, about a month and half before the Walk. Back then we had a goal of 500 people and raising $200,000. I wasn’t sure what Walk day would be like, but convinced some friends and family to join me as volunteers. It ended up being a beautiful sunny day in May filled with people celebrating loved ones and cheering friends and strangers. I left feeling energized, inspired and proud, and my friends and family felt the same way.

Four years later, the Hope & Heroes Walk has grown to over 1,500 participants and my family and friends are still among them.  I am proud to lead our team in putting together an event that has become more than just a day on the calendar to so many people, including myself. I get to cheer on and laugh with so many people I have gotten to know through my work, and enjoy watching my friends and family become even more a part of my Hope & Heroes community.  So whether you are involved as a walker, team captain, or volunteer, I look forward to seeing you on May 17th!

What motivates you? Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook page. Information about the Walk is here.