Local Firefighter's Family Needs Your Help

Don’t miss running in the , a special event to benefit 6-year-old Andrew Whetstine of Dacula. Andrew has been diagnosed with Mowat-Wilson Syndrome. Mowat-Wilson Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects many different parts of the body.

Andrew has already endured 17 surgeries and more than 400 days in the hospital as a result of complications and infections from his condition. He is currently receiving speech, physical and occupational therapy as well as IV therapy at the hospital for his low immune system function.

Andrew’s family is facing mounting medical bills as their insurance only covers a portion of these costs. Andrew’s father is a firefighter and paramedic at Dacula's . Andrew's mom stays at home to provide full time care.

The Pumpkin Pacer 5K, benefiting the Whetstine family, will start in the Dacula Stars and Strikes parking lot on Saturday, Oct. 8. The fun run begins at 8 a.m. followed by the 5K at 8:30 a.m. Prizes will be awarded to the top male and female finishers and children are invited to participate in a pumpkin costume contest.

The 5K is hosted by Fundracers, a fundraising organization that manages 5K and 10K’s for non-profit organizations in Gwinnett County and Northeast Georgia. Approximately 70 percent of all proceeds from this event will go directly to the Whetstine family to help offset medical costs.  The Pumpkin Pacer is accepting donations of $20 if you register prior to Sept. 19, $22 if registered by Oct. 1 and $25 after Oct.1 through race day. A $10 donation is encouraged for fun run participants.

Register online to participate in this event or to be an event sponsor. If you are unable to participate but still would like to donate to the family, visit the active running website and make an online donation.