Knights-Kaderli 5K and basket raffle set for Oct. 5 at East Shelby

File photo by Tom Rivers: This group participates last Oct. 7 in the 5K to benefit the Knights-Kaderli Fund. That fund directs about $40,000 to $50,000 a year to help people in Orleans County who are battling cancer.

MEDINA – On Oct. 5, the Knights-Kaderli Walk/Run will celebrate its 36th year of honoring the memory of two Medina natives.

Since 1989, the community has gathered for this event in honor of Richard Knights and Sue Kaderli, both pillars of their community who died from cancer.

“Our event will continue as an untimed walk/run so registrants can participate in a leisurely walk with family and friends, or set their watches for a 5K run,” said Stacey Knights Pellicano, Knights-Kaderli board member and daughter of Richard Knights.

This year’s event will resemble the more casual family atmosphere of the walk’s earlier years, Pellicano said.

As always, participants and the community are encouraged to support their basket raffle.

The walk/run begins at 11 a.m. at East Shelby Fire Hall. Participants may register in person beginning at 10 a.m. or online at Knights-Kaderli’s’ website prior to the race.

Lunch will be served immediately following the race and guests may eat outside under the pavilion.

Walkers/runners are encouraged to photograph their event and tag Knights-Kaderli on Facebook and Instagram at #KnightsKaderli5K for the opportunity to win some fun prizes.

Pellicano shared quotes from family members about the event.

“This is our favorite time of year. We look forward to being with all of our supporters,” one member said.

“This is one of our major fundraisers for the year,” another said. “We know the community will show up to support their neighbors who are living with cancer.”

Richard Knights and Sue Kaderli were known for their spirit of community, and the family is honored to remember them in this way.

“This foundation was founded in memory of our loved ones, Richard Knights and Susan Kaderli, two lifelong residents of Orleans County,” Pellicano said. “We raise funds through annual events and various contributions made by individuals, organizations and memorials. Funds thus far have assisted families with nutritional supplements and prescriptions, as well as medical supplies and bills. Run by a board of directors, there are no administrative costs, thereby allowing almost 100% of money raised to be used to assist Orleans County cancer patients and their families.”

Since its inception, the Knights-Kaderli Fund has helped 850 patients totaling $862,301, said Mary Zelazny, daughter of Sue Kaderli.

Anyone wishing more information or financial assistance can contact Zelazny at (585) 746-8455, Melissa Knights Bertrand at (716) 983-7932 or Pellicano at (716) 998-0977. Donations may be made through Penpal or Venmo.