A signature element of the annual Sherry’s Run 5K Run/Walk in Lebanon has been canceled because of relentless pressure from a Florida-based group to let go of the balloon release.
“They were trying to give us a black eye,” said Tonyia Stockton, Board Chair for Sherry’s Run. They were not playing fair I didn't think.
Each year, Sherry’s Run participants attach names of their loved ones who fought cancer or are fighting cancer to a balloon and release them into the air. Many of those names have been found out of state. Ashlee Chance has taken part in the balloon release for many years. Both her parents died of cancer.
“I hold those balloon in my hand with a message and to me, of course in my mind, this message is going to my parents,” Chance said. “This balloon is traveling to heaven and it means something to me.”
Recently the Wilson County based non-profit group was contacted by the Florida base activist group Balloon Blow.
The group sent Sherry’s Run an email informing the non-profit releasing more than 25 helium balloons is illegal in Tennessee. Balloons Blow said it also posted on their Facebook page urging them to act responsibly. Yet, the group claimed they were ignored and called on others to take to social media.
Stockton said they took time to review the law, consult with broad member and an attorney before responding.
“We do this out of love and respect,” Stockton said. “We didn't really know that we were hurting anyone or breaking the law. They were just relentless in their e-mails and text.
Sherry’s Run decided to let go of the balloon release this year - a tradition that Chance is said to see end.
“I understand there are effects on the earth,” Chance said. “I totally get that. (But) it kind of hurt when I knew I wouldn't be able to release that balloon.”
For those who are disappointed by the news, Sherry’s Run did have plans for an alternative activity to honor loved ones.
The 13th annual Sherry's Run will take place on Saturday, September 10 at 8 a.m. at 623 West Main St. in Lebanon, TN. To register, visit sherrysrun.org.
Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. and the cost is $40 on event day which includes an event t-shirt.
The community’s support allows Sherry’s Run to assist cancer patients 52 weeks a year with gas, groceries, utility bills, housing payments, prescription assistance, health insurance premiums, medical bills, and colonoscopy assistance.
