The Snowflake 5K and Remembrance Weekend, sponsored by Dylan and Gavin’s Rainbow, is a multifaceted event.

“The significance of snow in remembrance of Dylan and Gavin is a significant reason for the name of this unique winter event,” says their mother, Lora Krum. “It’s also known as a Remembrance Weekend because it coincides with Worldwide Children’s Remembrance Day, a day that has been organized in observance of remembering children who have died at any age, from any cause.”

Since 1997, Worldwide Children’s Remembrance Day has been held on the second Sunday in December, during a season that is very difficult for those who grieve the loss of a child or children.

“Dylan and Gavin’s Rainbow realizes that the holidays are an extremely tough time for those who miss any of their beloved family members and friends, and we invite anyone to run/walk in memory of all who have died,” says Krum.

Remembrance Weekend

Remembrance Weekend begins Friday with preregistration packets for the run/walk distributed from 5 to 8 p.m. at Zion UCC, Second and Iron streets, in Lehighton. Others who wish to register for the 5K/1-mile run/walk may also register at that time. Registration will also begin at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, with the event stepping off promptly at 9 a.m.

The attendees who participate in the walk/run gather at the start line in the morning for many different reasons, says Krum.

“Some do it in remembrance of a loved one, others in support of those who grieve, and all do it in the spirit of walking, or running, side by side, sharing laughter, tears, fresh air and connections.”

For those who love running as a competitive sport, there are many awards categories as well. And for those who choose to dress in fun holiday attire, judges will be choosing a few who catch their eyes to win a prize.

Krum says there will be food to be enjoyed as well. Tasty food has become a tradition of the weekend and is prepared by a group of volunteers at Zion. For those who participate in the walk/run, food is included in the registration fee.

Food, including a bake sale, will also be available for spectators to purchase.

There will also be a basket raffle. The raffle will be open Friday evening during registration, as well as Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dylan and Gavin’s Rainbow

Dylan and Gavin’s Rainbow is a nonprofit organization that was established in memory of two teenage brothers whose lives ended two years apart after fast and fierce battles with pediatric cancer and treatments.

The mission of the organization is to reach out to families who are struggling with a serious condition of a child, or to families who have experienced the death of a child.

This is because during the very difficult days when Lora and Dave Krums’ boys were sick and hospitalized, they were overwhelmed with the generosity and love that surrounded them.

“We will never know many of the people who reached out to us, but will never forget how important the support was. This is why we choose to continue to share Dylan and Gavin’s love with other families who face life-changing experiences due to the children who endure serious health issues.”

Although the Krums cannot change or fix what has happened, the actions of ministry that take place can provide some light, hope and support. It may also include monetary gifts, along with gifts of comfort for the child, and often for siblings as well, as the Krums recognize that the siblings are going through tough times as well when most of the attention is focused on a sick child.

“This is our third annual event, and it continues to be successful due to the generosity of volunteers, sponsors and community organizations,” says Krum. “Everyone who joins in this effort provides an important part of making this run smoothly and safely.

“All of this enhances the true focus of why this is known as Remembrance Weekend,” she says.

Helping others

Each year, Dylan and Gavin’s Rainbow shares the proceeds with other nonprofit organizations, including two local chapters of The Compassionate Friends (the Carbon County and Poconos chapters) which is an international organization that supports families after the death of a child.

Additional choices this year include Mady’s Angels, Lilliana’s Helping Hands, Nolan’s Keep Afloat and Books from Bennett. These four nonprofits have also been established in loving memory of children who have died by their families, who continue to share their children in the world.

During this weekend’s event, there will be resource stations that will help create community awareness of different types of grief support that is available in the area, as well as other organizations that reach out to others, and information about Carbon County’s Worldwide Children’s Remembrance Service which will begin at 6:30 p.m. Sunday in the sanctuary of Zion UCC.

For more information or to register, email dylanandgavinsrainbow@gmail.com or call 610-377-1191. Online registration is also available at www.pretzelcitysports.com.