TALLAHASSEE, FL -- Roberts Elementary School is hosting its annual Trent Trot 5K on January 28, in memory of Trent McElroy who died of cancer in 2013. Last year, more than 1,000 runners registered for the 5K, allowing the school to donate $25,000 to Trent's Touch, a foundation created to honor his legacy. Last year, eight families received $2,500 grants from his Foundation to help with unexpected expenses.
Trent McElroy was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare skeletomuscular cancer, while in Kindergarten at Roberts Elementary School. His treatment of radiation and chemotherapy began at MD Anderson before transferring to Nemours Children's Hospital in Jacksonville, Fla. so he could be closer to home. Throughout his battle, Trent remained positive and lived life fully and normally by going to school, playing soccer, baseball and basketball. His first treatment ended in January 2011. In April 2011, his first scan showed the cancer had metastasized to his lung. He underwent a thoracotomy to remove the mass and started back on chemotherapy for another year. After completing his second round of chemotherapy in 2012, the first post-scan showed another metastasis. This time, a full chamber of his lung was removed and a third round of chemotherapy was required. During his fight, Trent also experienced a stroke as a result of the initial radiation, requiring brain surgery. Finally, in 2013 when a fourth metastasis appeared, and having done everything possible, the family started working on Trent's bucket list. Trent, his mom, dad and younger sister made many memories together as a family. Sadly, Trent was unable to complete one item on his list – to become a doctor and help kids who were fighting cancer. Trent lost his battle with cancer at the age of 10 on November 13, 2013.
Trent's Touch was established to keep his legacy alive while raising funds to help families of newly diagnosed pediatric cancer.
The Trent Trot 5K kicks off at 8:30 a.m. with a 1K at 9:30 a.m.
