For the ninth year in a row, UT’s Student Nurses’ Association will host its annual Sprint for the Prints 5K Run and Walk.
This event will support the Precious Prints Project, which provides free fingerprint charms to families who have lost a child. The project aims at helping families channel their grief in a healthy, compassionate way.
UT nursing students manage the project in its entirety. They collect funds year-round to buy materials to produce the charms, and train nurses in area hospitals on obtaining fingerprints and caring for the families during their devastating loss.
“Being a part of this event as race chair this year is so special to me,” said Megan Tomasek, a senior nursing student. “It gives me the opportunity to see how the Precious Prints Project makes a significant impact on the families in our communities. Seeing everyone come together and support such a good cause is so rewarding and makes all the hard work worth it. “
Since January 2011, more than 1,300 families have received a pendant.
Lynne Miller, an instructor in the College of Nursing and director of the Precious Prints Project, said that this race, while exciting and fun, is a way to ensure that funding will be available to continue providing this gift to families who experience the loss of a child.
“Sprint for the Prints is a time when participants remember the life of a precious child. Whether it is coming together as an event on campus or participating virtually, the opportunity to honor these families and remember the children still remains our focus. Registration is very much appreciated by our students and the families we help, as we rely heavily on our community’s support,” Miller added.
This year’s run will once again include a virtual component. The virtual format allows participants to complete the 3.1 miles any time from September 18 to September 25 anywhere they feel safe.
The in-person 5k will begin on will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, September 25, in circle park on UTs campus.
Registration for the run is open online now!
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CONTACT:
Kara Clark (kmclark2@utk.edu, 865-974-9498)