RUMFORD — The Mountain Valley Athletic Boosters will be holding a 5K benefit run/walk for member Denise Garcia at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Hosmer Field.

Leanne Virgin, a member of the Mountain Valley Athletic Boosters, said that Garcia, who has been an active member for six years, was recently diagnosed with cancer and will be undergoing treatment.

“We both started working with the boosters around the same time and have known each other for awhile,” Virgin said. “When stuff like this happens to our members, whether it’s an illness or a family member passing away, we try to do something nice. In the past, we’ve given money or held spaghetti dinners. We were thinking that the 5K would be a good way to try and raise money for Denise.”

The cost to register will be $20 if it is done before Oct. 20, Virgin said.

“Whoever signs up before Oct. 20 will get a free T-shirt,” Virgin continued. “After that, the cost for registering will be $25, and there will be no T-shirt.”

Registration forms can be picked up at Davis Florist and Mountain Valley High School.

Those interested in the 5K may also register on the day of the event at 8 a.m. at Hosmer Field.

Virgin said that the early response to the 5K benefit run/walk has been “very positive.”

“Many people have been calling me and saying, ‘Hey, I can’t walk, but what can I do to help?’” Virgin said. “We’re finding something for everybody to do. Every little bit helps.”

Though the 5K benefit run/walk has yet to happen, Virgin said that the MVHS Boosters already have their sights set on more fundraisers in the near future.

“There have been some talks about holding a dance in November, with a Chinese auction and bake sale,” Virgin said. “It’s not official yet, but it’s something we’ll be looking at.”

For more information or to donate money, call Virgin at 364-0870.

mdaigle@sunjournal.com