WE HIKE FOR THE CAUSE
On September 9th, 2012, Heather Schols, a beloved mother, wife, and friend, passed away suddenly from heart complications. In 2014, her husband, Kelly Schols, with the support of friends and family, committed to raising $100,000 for the new cardiac rehabilitation center at Skagit Valley Hospital to be named in her honor. As a long-time employee and member of the SVH community, we believe this is the perfect tribute to Heather, who whole-heartedly valued giving back to her community.
The majority of the funds for the center have been raised through a hiking fundraiser called Seven Lakes in Seven Hours. Starting in 2014, Kelly Schols, Ed Perry, Todd Power and Kevin Bingham blazed a trail through the Chuckanut Mountain Range with the goal to hit seven lakes (Lilly, Lizard, Mud, Pine, Cedar, Lost, and Fragrance) within seven hours. They accomplished the 26.37 mile hike within the time limit and gained community support and interest in the event. In 2015 the original four brought along 40 new hikers for the second annual event. Last year 50 total SLISHers participated and we hope to have another record number for this last, celebratory hike. Through the generosity and enthusiasm of SLISHers and the community, the $100,000 goal for the Heather Schols Cardiac Rehabilitation Center was met last year. This year's hike, taking place on the 5th anniversary of Heather's passing, will be a celebration of the goal we've achieved. Donations collected this year will be placed in a fund to support any future needs of the Cardiac Rehab Center for years to come. We hope you will join us to hike and celebrate! |