Alisha Saulsbury who is a dedicated runner herself, (and has completed close to two dozen full marathons, many half marathons, 10 and 5K runs) thought it would be a nice addition to raise money for Talbot Hospice while doing something festive as a family or individually, for those who find themselves in need of utilizing Hospice services. Her involvement with the Festival of Trees began 23 years ago when she and her oldest son (now 26) baked and sold cookies in the Gold Room during the Festival, while onlookers admired the beautiful display of decorated trees.

The proceeds went to Hospice. As time went on, she saw there was a need for a Mother-Son Dance. So she, along with her friend Dorri Gowe-Lambert. started this dance. It became a much anticipated event for mother-son couples to have fun while raising money for Hospice. Her youngest son helped and enjoyed these dances for 9 years. At that time, she discovered that she & her youngest child, daughter Karli, could do something together.

They started the 5K Fun Run for Hospice several years ago. “It became a Santa Fun Run last year during a global health pandemic, but we were able to do it virtually and it was a lot of fun. Photos are still available online on the Talbot Hospice site. The community really pulled together.”

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