CLINTON – The 4th Annual National Brain Tumor Society Nature Walk will take place on September 7, at 11 a.m. at the northern pavilion (Chautauqua Area), Weldon Springs State Recreation Area east of Clinton.

The purpose of the Nature Walk is to raise funds and awareness for brain tumor research and to honor all who are suffering from, or have suffered, the devastating effects of a brain tumor. The goal of the event is to raise $5,000 for the National Brain Tumor Society. 

Organizer Lauren Thompson Johnson started the nature walk fundraiser in 2016 in honor of her mother Carol Thompson, who died in 2015 from glioblastoma malforma (GBM), the most aggressive and deadliest form of all brain tumors. 

Carol Thompson spent three decades at Weldon Springs bringing nature and education together in the same setting, first as a volunteer then employed as Weldon Spring’s first park interpreter. Her achievements include getting the one room Union Schoolhouse relocated to Weldon Springs, the Take Pride in America Award, presented by the President of the United States of America, and a “Those Who Excel” community volunteer award. Many local residents experienced as schoolchildren her passion for nature.

Registration is at the pavilion on September 7 between 10-11 a.m. A suggested donation of $10 is requested in order to participate in the walk and activities; the quarter mile nature walk will begin at 11 a.m. 

All ages are welcome, as well as leashed dogs. After the walk, there will be a drawing for donated items and a bounce house for kids. 

Sponsors of this year’s event include AMVETS Post 14, K&K Construction, Baum Chevrolet-Buick, and State Farm agent Nate Ennis.

For details on event activities and offerings, please call, text or email Lauren Johnson (217-622-8294 or Thompson.lauren84@gmail.com) or Norman Emery (703-674-6828 or norm.emery@gmail.com).