Westport, CT September 30, 2025 – Circle of Care for families of children with cancer hosted its first statewide Make Tracks for kids with cancer Walk/5K Run on Sunday, September 28 at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport. Presented by ASML, the event drew more than 600 participants and raised over $100,000 to provide critical support to families facing a childhood cancer diagnosis.
The morning radiated with community spirit as families, friends, and supporters gathered in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The opening ceremony set the tone with a moving tribute to children and families currently navigating cancer many of whom stood alongside the crowd, embraced in a powerful “sea of support.” The ceremony also included Westport Second Selectwoman Andrea Moore, who welcomed the crowd to Westport and proclaimed September 28th as Childhood Cancer Awareness Day in honor of the event.
This year’s Champion, Bryson, created an unforgettable moment when he rang the symbolic “end of treatment bell” alongside Champion Sponsor Matt Russo of Northwestern Mutual Tri-Harbor Financial Group. The ceremony energized the crowd before the official start of the walk/run.
“Make Tracks is more than a run and walk—it’s a chance for families and the community to come together in solidarity,” said Liz Salguero, founder of Circle of Care. “Thanks to the incredible support of our participants, volunteers, and sponsors, we can continue to provide essential emotional, practical, and financial support to families across Connecticut and beyond.”
Participants enjoyed a lively atmosphere throughout the morning. Food Court sponsor Romanacci served up crowd favorites, while wellness partners including Dynamic Edge Physiotherapy, Squeeze Massage, Vital Stretch Wilton, Trader Joe’s Westport, SSDS Karate, Forme Barre, Saint James Iced Tea, Lululemon Westport, and Kaia Yoga offered health-focused giveaways and activities. Kids enjoyed a superhero adventure designed by Inspira Marketing Group, and STAR 99.9’s Anna Zap emceed the day with her trademark energy and warmth.
Circle of Care extends heartfelt thanks to its major sponsors: ASML, Northwestern Mutual Tri-Harbor Financial Group, Inspira Marketing Group, JP Morgan Chase & Co., STAR 99.9, SellingConnecticut.com, Consigli Construction Co., Chittenden Insurance Group, Purple Frog Graphics, The Jay Tolisano Team at CrossCountry Mortgage and the many additional sponsors and vendors whose generosity made the day possible.
Make Tracks for kids with cancer will return in September 2026 during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month to continue raising awareness and vital funds to ensure that no family faces childhood cancer alone.
About Circle of Care
Founded in 2003, Circle of Care provides non-medical practical, emotional, and financial support to families of children with cancer. To date, Circle of Care has supported nearly 4,000 families across Connecticut, Westchester County, and Western Massachusetts. To learn more, visit thecircleofcare.org.
