A final total of 265 runners and walkers came out for the Taylor Watford Foundations 5K Run/Walk for Hope, Saturday. The number of runners and walkers last year was 220. The event, which grows every year, started from the yard of the Brookland-Cayce High School Basketball Arena and traversed through the Avenues of Cayce. (Click here to see the TWF Facebook page)

The run was dedicated to the memory of Sara Beth Dorociak who died of Fentanyl poison in September. Her mother, Sara Hargett, who became emotional as she spoke, talked about the pain the loss of her daughter has brought to the family, before the race.

Jade Watford, of the Taylor Watford Foundation, reported that the number of deaths from Fentanyl poison, and overdoses, is on the decline for the first time in years.

Taylor Watford Foundation Board President Kyle Cullum, thanked all of the runners and supporters for coming out to take part in the fundraiser. He said the money raised goes to those seeking help to get their lives under control and live healthy and more safely. 

Medals were handed out to winners in several categories after the race.

Taylor Watford Mission:

● To help bridge the gap by providing the initial funding needed for individuals seeking to enter a public or private drug program and/or recovery facility.
● To assist with the funding for those seeking to initiate treatment to overcome substance abuse and start a new life in recovery.
● To raise awareness amongst the community about substance abuse and the effect it has on families.
● To offer moral support for families who have been affected by substance abuse and to advocate for greater treatment access and support.