Jill Walworth and Chris "Wally" Walworth join Andy St. John on WLKI 100.3 to discuss the upcoming Courage for ConLei's Turtle Trot.
The Walworths share the deeply personal inspiration behind the event: honoring the memory of their daughter, ConLei, who passed away from pediatric brain cancer. By turning her love for turtles and Turkey Lake into a community celebration, they aim to fund vital research through The Cure Starts Now.
- Date: Monday, May 25, 2026 (Memorial Day)
- Location: Turkey Lake Restaurant & Tavern
- Events: Timed 5K Race and a 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk
- Registration Deadlines:
- T-Shirt Guarantee: Sign up at this link by May 5, 2026, to ensure you receive a commemorative shirt in your size.
- Flexibility: While pre-registration is encouraged, participants can still sign up the morning of the event.
- The Route: The course leads participants past "ConLei's Corner," a meaningful halfway point featuring photos and memories of ConLei, before returning to the Tavern.
- The "Caboose" Prize: In the spirit of the Turtle Trot, a special prize is awarded to the final finisher of the race.
Last year, the event raised an impressive $34,000 for pediatric brain cancer research. The Walworths emphasize that every $100 raised equates to roughly one hour of research, moving closer to a future where no other family has to endure a similar path.
Listeners can register, donate, or sign up as a business sponsor by visiting CSNEvents.org/turtletrot or by searching for the Courage for ConLei social media pages.
The episode also highlights the local "Gold Out" games hosted by the Prairie Heights High School Junior Committee on May 5 and May 7, 2026. Community members are invited to visit the educational booth and support the Prairie Heights Panthers while raising awareness for the gold ribbon--the symbol for the "priceless" lives of children fighting cancer.