LOVES PARK, Ill. – On Saturday, Oct. 10, the Nik as Wish Foundation will host its 15th annual Nik’s Home Run fundraiser at Mercyhealth Sportscore Two, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd. The event celebrates fifteen years of granting nearly five‑hundred wishes to young adults fighting cancer.
Event details and activities
The day opens at 8 a.m. with registration, followed by a 7‑kilometer race and a 1.5‑mile fun walk beginning at 9 a.m. Spectators can attend for free, and all participants receive a commemorative pin.
Beyond the run, the fundraiser includes a Grammy’s auction with more than 150 items, raffles, a post‑race celebration, and prize awards. The top male and female finishers in the 7K will each earn $100, while the top three finishers in each age group receive medals.
Special wish reveal
A highlight of the morning is a special wish reveal for Miguel, a 22‑year‑old who hopes to meet Lin‑Manuel Miranda, creator and original star of the Broadway musical “Hamilton.” Miguel shared that the musical has helped him through some of the darkest moments of his life. Organizers plan to surprise Miguel and his family at 8:45 a.m. with the news that his wish has been granted.
About Nik’s Wish
Founded in 2012 as the Nikolas Ritschel Foundation, Nik’s Wish is a Rockford‑based, volunteer‑powered nonprofit that serves cancer patients ages 18 to 24 who have aged out of programs such as Make‑A‑Wish. Since its inception, the organization has fulfilled nearly five‑hundred wishes across 43 states, with each wish costing an average of $10,000.
The Home Run fundraiser supports the foundation’s mission to bring hope and joy to young adults with cancer and their families. Proceeds from the event help cover the cost of wishes and expand the organization’s reach.
How to get involved
Registration for the race and walk is available through RunSignUp, and donations can be made directly at NiksWish.org. Community members are encouraged to attend, volunteer, or contribute items for the auction to help make more wishes come true.
For more information about the event schedule, registration, or how to support Nik’s Wish, visit the foundation’s website or contact the organizers at the Mercyhealth Sportscore Two venue.
Original reporting: WIFR Rockford News First (local) — read the source article.
