In 2014, Hunter Elementary was saddened by the loss of sixth grade student, Bethany Holder. She passed away due to complications from Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Another student, Bryanna Nelson, 14, passed away in 2015 — also resulting from CF. Currently, two other students in the Stoney Creek community have CF and several others who have been directly affected by it.

The month of May is National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month.

Hunter Elementary will host the Third Annual CF Walk-A-Thon from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 13. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event will be given to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Since 2014, Hunter Elementary has raised over $45,000 for this cause. The opening ceremonies will begin at 9 a.m. on the playground of Hunter Elementary. The community is invited to attend as we join together to raise money and increase awareness of Cystic Fibrosis.   

Special guest, Leigh Ellington from the Knoxville Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, will share information regarding the latest research and advances in the treatment of CF. Survivors, caregivers, friends and family members of those who have been affected by this incurable disease are encouraged to attend and participate.

There will be a balloon release, ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication of a new playground, memory garden and walking track.

Hunter Elementary students, faculty and parents are currently accepting donations and looking for individuals and businesses to sponsor this walk.  The classes are competing to see which classroom can raise the most money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. No donation is too small. 2016 Hunter CF T-shirts are available for $10 each. Following the walk, students will enjoy inflatables, face painting, food and fun. If you are unable to attend, but would like to help with the cause, donations may be sent to:

Hunter Elementary School
attn: CF Walk-a-Thon
145 Hope Street
Elizabethton, TN 37643

If anyone has questions or would like to help, please contact: Amanda Barnett by email at amandabarnett@carterk12.net or Amy Grubb at amygrubb@carterk12.net or at Hunter Elementary by calling 423-547-4074.