08/23/2019
Another year approaches for Min’s Mississippi Memorial Walk/Run and family and friends would like to have this year be a special reminder of why and what this event means to them. Melody Wilkinson, Min’s mom, says, “Her memory lives on with all the donations that we give out, not just through the scholarships, but also in the donations to families that have gone through similar situations.”
Min would have been 39 years old this year, which in today’s world is still very young. Her life on this earth was tragically ended at the tender age of 14. This is a time when young people are trying to figure things out on their own, but still rely on their parents or other adults for support and guidance. Any parent would’ve been blessed to have a daughter like Min. With her sweet loving temperament and silly unique personality, she made life feel beautiful and fun. She was both of these things to many people. Those people still see her smile, feel her hugs, and hear her laughter. Such blessings have remained even though she has traveled on.
Another way she lives on is through the memorial scholarship that is funded by walk/run proceeds that help West Carroll seniors and college students pursue their dreams. Min had dreams of helping others when she began her career path, so it is only fitting that her memory and love of running continues to help others year after year. When asked how she thought Min would feel about the walk/run, Melody said that “She would think it was great.” So far, approximately 75 young people have received scholarships of $500.00 each. There is a potential for there to be more than 3 scholarships per year, it just depends on the scholarship submissions. To apply for a scholarship, students can check with the guidance counselor at the West Carroll High School.
August 31st, 2019 is the date for this year’s race, it will be the 25th year. That seems like a big milestone, but we hope that it continues for many more. It is hard not to feel Min’s presence on those race days when we all gather together to remember her and her life. These days can hurt too, but they also bring family and friends together, encourage community, and benefit future area students and families struggling with loss similar to those experienced through Min’s death. We gather together to remember her love for so many, to be a part of achieving dreams, to show each other we are here for one another, to smile, laugh and hug as Min did, and to support an effort that has brought blessings to so many people.
A new event will be added to the walk/run this year. Children of walking age through age 6 are welcome to be participants in their own walk/run. The course will be 1/4 mile long. Lineup will be at the walk/run official start line to the 1/8 mile mark and back. This event will begin at 7:15 AM and there is no entry fee.
If you would like to participate, there are bright gold forms that you can find at many local businesses. You may also register online at www.GetMeRegistered.com/MinsMissMemRun, or you can sign up on the morning of the race. If you would like to volunteer please let us know, ASAP. Please help us make this year special and show your support.
Min's Mississippi Memorial Run - 25th Annual registration form at GetMeRegistered.com
