Running for Elsie's Heart

Join us on April 11, 2026 at 10:00 am to run a 5K for Elsie Dawn West, the newest addition to the West family. Parents are Colton & Caitlyn West, of Hiawassee GA. Elsie also has an older brother, Cash, just shy of 2 years old.

This race will begin at the pavilion once entering the Clay County Park Campground. The race will go from there along the Chatuge Dam Trail and back. 

Elsie is currently in the cardiac center at the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Shortly after being home from the hospital from birth, Elsie ended up having to go to ICU.

In summary, Elsie as congenital heart defects. Elsie is going to be going down a "single ventricle pathway" with a grand total of 3 heart surgeries. We know this is overwhelmingly hard for Elsie, her parents, brother, and immediate family members.

We have full faith in God for total healing & normal life for Elsie, but she does have a long road ahead. Help us show our support by lessening the financial burden this lays on the parents so they can fully focus on Elsie. 

Registration is $35. This will provide you entry into the race, a free t-shirt at the end, and even some free food and beverages at the pavilion area. All proceeds go to the West family as they are walking in the scariest season of life and need all the support from our community, family, and friends they can get. Most importantly, we have full faith in God's healing and comfort.