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Step Up for Hope 5K Run, Walk & Stroll supports local postpartum depression awareness efforts
When new mothers find themselves overcome with “baby blues,” the effects on their families can be overwhelming and the stress of postpartum depression can be dangerously debilitating. The Tree of Hope Foundation is sponsoring a 5K charity event to benefit grassroots efforts related to postpartum depression (PPD) awareness. The fourth annual Step Up for Hope 5K Run, Walk & Stroll will be held Saturday, June 21, 2008, at Metro Beach Metropark, along Jefferson in Harrison Township, Mich. (31300 Metropolitan Parkway, Harrison Township, MI 48045) Approximately 700 participants are expected. This timed, but uncompetitive, all-ages event invites people of every fitness level to run or walk in support of Tree of Hope’s postpartum depression awareness, research and education efforts which include free, weekly support groups for struggling mothers and community health and educational events. Advance $15 registration is now available at www.treeofhopefoundation.org. Onsite registration is available for $20, beginning at 8:15 a.m. Rain or shine, walkers will take the starting line promptly at 9 a.m., with runners to follow at 9:30. Advance registrants will receive a t-shirt and all participants will be treated to refreshments throughout the morning. Various raffles for cash and prizes will be held after the walk and winners will be announced at 11 a.m. in the Metro Beach Activity Center. The Tree of Hope Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2005 to promote research, education and awareness of postpartum-related mood disorders. The founding members of the organization were profoundly impacted by the tragedy of Mary Ellen and Caroline Moffitt, who became victims of this devastating condition. To learn more about Tree of Hope’s efforts or to register online for the Step Up for Hope 5K event, please visit www.treeofhopefoundation.org or call (877) HOPE 311 or (877) 467-3311. # # # Editor’s Note: · Feature story interviews/opportunities are available in advance from the following: o Local women and families who have suffered with postpartum depression o Support group leaders and counselors who can offer resources and advice o Pam Moffitt, who lost a sister-in-law to postpartum depression and co-founded the Tree of Hope Foundation, based in St. Clair Shores, Mich. · Photos from previous Tree of Hope 5K events are available for use at: www.treeofhopefoundation.org. |
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