OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Medical Center invites area families and community members to participate in the second annual Nourish the Journey 5K Walk on Saturday, October 24, celebrating the strength, dedication and support that help families achieve their infant feeding goals.
The free community event will begin at 10:15 a.m. at Page Park in Dixon, with participant check-in taking place from 9:30 to 10 a.m. at the Lion's Club Shelter.
Last year's inaugural event welcomed approximately 60 participants, bringing together parents, families and supporters from throughout the region.
"We recognize that once a baby is born, another journey is just beginning - the feeding journey," said Gwen Strum, RN, IBCLC, organizer of the event and lactation consultant at OSF Saint Katharine. "We consider it an honor to walk alongside new mothers during that journey and provide the support they deserve to help meet their individual goals.”
Strum said the event also recognizes the important role played by family members, friends and other supporters.
"This journey requires a support team, and we want to recognize those individuals, as well," Strum said. "Whether it's a spouse, family member, friend or community resource, that support makes a difference. This walk is an opportunity to shine a light on the beautiful, individualized breastfeeding journey and honor the parents and support teams who have worked hard to provide babies with this nutrition."
The first 100 participants who register will receive a welcome bag. Mothers will also have the opportunity to select a breastfeeding or pumping milestone keychain, while supplies last.
Following the walk, attendees are invited to explore a community resource fair featuring local organizations and services that provide valuable information and support for area families.
Registration information for the 5K is available by visiting osfsaintkatharine.org/events.