Semper Gratus is ready for its sixth annual charity Shamrock Shuffle 5K in West Leechburg on March 12, the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day.

The annual event raises funds to support pediatric patients with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Last year, the organization raised $140,000 to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Cerebral Palsy.

“I never envisioned it growing to this scale, and I am super humbled by the community’s continuous support,” said Ian Coyle, founder and president of Semper Gratus, a charitable nonprofit whose name is Latin for “always grateful.”

Check-in and registration begins at 9 a.m., and the race starts at 10 a.m. Participants can run or walk.

The first 300 participants will receive a swag bag. Disney characters, Mike the Balloon Guy, and food and refreshments will be at the event. Coyle said costumes are encouraged and pets are allowed. Sanitation stations will be available on site.

In conjunction with the race, a dance party fundraiser called “Small Town. Loud Voice” will be held at the West Leechburg Fire Department Social Hall from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. There will be music, food, an open bar, gift basket auction and more. Attendees must be over 21 years of age.

Each year at the event, a guest of honor is chosen to highlight and support. Coyle said the organization finds guests through families reaching out to them.

“It’s an opportunity for families to discuss their story and help motivate others to do better,” said Coyle, a Leechburg native.

This year’s dance will honor 9-year-old Joey Byrnes of Plum. The third grader recently completed his last chemotherapy treatment in a 2½-year battle with cancer. He was diagnosed in September 2019 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow.

A celebration dubbed “Superhero Day” was held in December at Pivik Elementary, the school he attends. Some students dressed as their favorite characters for the occasion.

Bob Byrnes, Joey’s father, said it feels good to see his son get honored because the family strives to raise awareness about the type of cancer their son was diagnosed with.

“We can’t wait. Joey is excited to be the guest of honor and show off his dance moves,” Byrnes said.

A portion of proceeds from the event will help benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

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