Brenda Kirk was already sold on the mission of MetroHealth – to save lives, restore health, promote wellness and provide outstanding life-long care accessible to all. And she was already helping with that mission as a board member of The MetroHealth Foundation.

But in February 2009, Kirk's helping found a new direction after she spent time going through MetroHealth's hospital facilities for children. "It was sort of a pinnacle moment for me, to watch the dedication and passion MetroHealth employees have for the mission.''

Kirk, Vice President of Strategy at Hyland Software, wanted to do something more to raise money for caring for children at MetroHealth.

"I thought, I'm a runner. I know a lot of people who are runners, so why not a race to raise money for MetroHealth?'' Ninety days later, the first Hy-5 Race was held. The fourth Hy-5 will be held Saturday, May 19 at Hyland's headquarters in Westlake.

The event has become a popular race for rookie and veteran racers alike. Last year's 5K Run/1-Mile Walk attracted more than 800 participants and raised more than $42,000 for MetroHealth.

Kirk says Hyland wants to support the advancement of technology in health care and to do that with an organization that has a grassroots effort in the community. "We want to help educate people on what MetroHealth is and provides to the community. It's not just a Level 1 trauma center.''

Related

• Join us at the Hy-5 Race on May 19
• Sponsor the Hy-5