Community raises funds for Laws family

Rainy skies didn't stop anyone, it just made for fonder memories as the community came together in support of Lindsay Laws who has recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The community energy, camaraderie and support were thick and awe-inspiring in all the best possible ways.

If ever there was a community event that exerted the passion of positivity – this was it!

With the help of Run Wild Missoula and Clark Fork Valley Running Club, the fun run saw participation well over the expected 85 runners, with a total of 173. Runners, joggers and walkers made their way through the 5K course which started at the Sanders County Courthouse, paralleled Highway 200 and continued down the Rimrock Trail, connected to the Power Park Trail system, passed through Power Park and ended at the courthouse, where it all began.

After the run, everyone was welcome to join in a BBQ, raffle, and bake sale that took place at Power Park. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and the sounds of talented Tanner Laws who was happily strumming away on his guitar.

Chadd Laws, Lindsay's father, commented, "When trying to find the words to express our gratitude, I'm certain I cannot convey our thanks completely. Thank you to the communities of Thompson Falls, Trout Creek, Noxon and Hot Springs who have given and supported us so generously. We are so fortunate to raise a family with such amazing friends and family who openly reach out to help and support those in our communities. We are thankful more than you'll ever know."

The event not only brought in financial help for the family, but more importantly, the community showed how much they care for Lindsay and want to see her well. "So many people and businesses stepped up to make this happen," said Josey Neesvig, event originator.

With special help from Run Wild Missoula (Tony Banovich), the Brookers and Runner's Edge, Clark Fork Valley Running Club, Mighty Fine T's, Sanders County Ledger, Bill and Sarah Naegeli, Eric and Katrina Nygaard and family, Vicky and Ben Croft, Ernest and Marty Scherzer, Gail Brown, and Suzy VonHeeder, the event ran smoothly. In addition, Taylor Services, Rocky Mountain Bank, Dan and Jenny Claridge, Traver's Excavating, Floyd and Carol Searl, Pat and Mindi Wilson and many other local businesses and community members also made contributions to help support the family, according to Neesvig.

"My apologies if I missed someone, but so many people stepped up to help. It was really neat to be part of this," Neesvig closed.