LIBERAL, Kansas– College student Amanda Collins was looking for a Thanksgiving Day 5k to earn extra credit in Health class, but there weren’t any races in her hometown of Liberal.
“I kind of got the idea, jokingly at first, that I would organize a 5k,” she said.
That idea quickly became a mission when she learned that her high school math teacher’s daughter was diagnosed with Burkett’s Lymphoma, one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. Now the community is coming together for 14 year old Emily Bremenkamp.
“This is one of the most giving communities there is at any time of year, so that people have stepped up and offered help, it does not surprise me at all,” said Cheryl Collins, Amanda’s mother and friend of the Bremenkamp family.
They’re selling pies and will take free will donations at registration. Locals, churches, and the community rec center have all pitched in to help. The race will start right outside of the rec center and follow an existing route Even though the rec is closed on Thanksgiving Day they’re handing over the keys to the building to help with the cause.
“I’m going to be out of town,” said Activities Supervisor Ronna Stump, “So, I said I’ll help you anyway I can.”
100% of the proceeds will go to the family, but mom Michelle said the support is more than just financial.
“Just knowing so many people care and are rooting for us, it really lifts her spirits as well,” Bremenkamp said.
“You never know when something is going to happen to you, and this is a community that is going to reach out and help you,” said Collins.
Registration is at 8:45 on Thanksgiving morning at the Rec Center and the race starts at 9:30. For more information call Amanda at 
620-482-0314 .
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