This past Saturday, Sedgefield Striders joined hands with the Smutsville community for a very special cause: to support Cleawin Davids, a brave 4-year-old fighting the relentless battle against cancer. A few of our club members took part in the fun run, while others contributed to the fund dedicated to Cleawin’s treatment.
The day began with a heartfelt prayer offered by a local, setting a solemn and hopeful tone as we stood in solidarity for Cleawin. As we left the Smutsville Sports Stadium, we passed through the township, welcomed by the locals, some cheering us on, others curious, asking what had brought us together this way. But everyone who heard Cleawin’s name seemed to understand immediately. This was more than a race. This was a run for hope, for resilience, for a little boy and his family who are trying to hold on.
Under the heat of the morning sun, we pressed forward through Sedgefield, down toward the mouth of the lagoon. We climbed the steep dune and looped back toward Smutsville, sweat dripping off us at this time.
As we neared the stadium, the music and the announcer’s voice grew louder, a chorus of encouragement calling us home. Entering the stadium, we were met by the cheers of the small but passionate crowd, all united by common hope: that, somehow, our collective effort could make a difference for little Cleawin.
In a world where suffering often goes unnoticed, this morning showed the beauty of community and compassion—a reminder that, while we may not take away the pain or make the journey easier, we can always walk (or run) alongside those who need us most.
