$1 million raised at Briggs & Al's Run & Walk



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Children's Hospital of Wisconsin announced more than $1 million was raised on Saturday, September 13th through Briggs & Al's Run & Walk for Children's Hospital. There was a 17,000 turn out at the event.

For 37 years, the event has drawn thousands of people downtown to run, walk, and fundraise in support of the care provided to children at the hospital, in the community, and around the state.

"Children's Hospital was founded in 1894 by members of the community who recognized a critical need for children's health care in Milwaukee. Today, we are ranked among the best pediatric hospitals in the country, but we haven't ventured far from our roots, making sure all kids can access care close to home. We are dedicated to our community, and we're really grateful every time that dedication and support is returned to us, as it was today," said President and CEO of Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Peggy Troy.

Gifts and funds raised help support Children's care, advocacy, research and education efforts, providing the very best for kids and families.

Briggs & Al's Run & Walk for Children's Hospital was founded in 1977 by legendary Marquette basketball coach Al McGuire. The event is a USA Track & Field-certified 8k course, attracting runners and wheelchair athletes with its iconic status. The event also features a three, and a five mile walk route and family-friendly entertainment.

Top finishers in the mens, women's, and wheelchair divisions are:

Men:


    Women:


      Push Rim Wheelchair:


        In it's largest year yet, more than 16,000 people took part in this year's run-walk.

        "We use a lot of resources that are funded by Al`s run. It's crucial, I think that awareness and funding for everything that we do is so important, " said Dr. David Margolis, from Children's Hospital of Milwaukee.

        Dr. David Margolis was at the run-walk with Jill Schreier and Peter Eschenbach, who are forever connected.

        "She, I mean literally saved my life without her I probably wouldn't be here right now. The doctor too, both of them together saved my life," said Peter Eschenbach, a Children's Hospital patient.

        For months, Eschenbach would make weekly trips to Children's Hospital for treatments. Through the help of his doctors and his Jill, who donated bone marrow, he is here today.

        "I just don't see it that way. I see it, as it's just the right thing to do," said Schreier.

        Several teams took part in the race, including team "Rally for Aly" in honor of Alyssa Pape who passed away in 2005 due to a connective tissue disorder.

        "When she was with us she received tremendous care and love and support from the doctors and practitioners over at Children`s Hospital," said Steve Pape, Aly's brother.

        The team has participated in the run-walk for 10 years.

        "This is our way of giving back to her and supporting her in her memory," Pape said.

        The Briggs & Al's Run & Walk has raised more than $15 million since 1978.

        For more information about Briggs & Al's Run & Walk, call (414)-266-1520, or CLICK HERE.