With the sound of the gun and clouds of vibrant colors filling the brisk air, over 250 runners began racing under the emerging rainbow. 

On Oct. 15, the second annual Abby Furco Memorial Color Run took place, in honor of Abby Furco, a 15-year-old who battled childhood cancer and its effects. 

“She was an incredible young lady who was full of life and laughter, who was a fighter and someone who absolutely loved her friends,” said Abby’s mom, Patty Furco. 

Maggie Furco, Abby’s sister who graduated from Ocean Lakes High School in 2022, left an impact on the Ocean Lakes Cross Country team (OLXC), now the team plans to continue volunteering each year and help support their family. 

After running for the OLXC team a few years ago, Maggie was recognized as one of the most positive, encouraging and welcoming people, making it such a meaningful event for the OLXC team to support Maggie and her family for the impact they’ve had on the team, according to junior Grace Thompson. 

The smell of fresh Starbucks coffee and donuts welcomed the runners as they waited to begin the 5k race. Throughout the course, color filled the streets as participants ran through the volunteers releasing colored powder and handing out water. 

“I was really happy and grateful to see everyone there with smiles on their faces, honoring Abby and her memory,” said Maggie. 

With the help of over 25 sponsors, 100 volunteers and the community, they were able to raise approximately $11,650.

All proceeds received go entirely to St. Baldrick’s Foundation. This foundation is the leading non-profit in funding lifesaving childhood cancer research, which allowed Abby to live 11 years past her cancer diagnosis and support each of the 25,000 children diagnosed each year, according to trisignup.com

Donations are still being accepted through the Abby Furco Memorial Color Run website. 

“As Abby’s color run was about to begin, it rained illuminating a brilliant rainbow. Most people agreed it was Abby connecting, watching down and saying thanks,” said English teacher and OLXC coach Micheal Nestor.