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“Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Twenty-nine years ago, Pastor Paul baptized our youngest child when she was six days old and in the ICU of Detroit Children’s Hospital the night before she had major heart surgery. Last Sunday, our family stood in awe of God’s goodness as we watched that same girl cross the finish line of the New York City Marathon!

The very first story that she shared with us after the race will also be a treasured memory. “I just had the most amazing God-thing happen to me! At Mile 24, my hamstring started cramping up, and I was in such terrible pain, so I just started praying, “God, please help me!” Immediately, I heard a familiar voice from another Team World Vision member, who just seemed to appear out of nowhere, saying, “How are you doing, Teenie?” When I told him that I was struggling, he instantly prayed over me and then said, “Come on. We’re finishing this together!” And throughout the last two miles, he just kept encouraging me all the way to the finish line.”

Godly encouragement is extremely powerful, especially to those who are hurting. This year’s Turkey Trot has tremendous potential to share the love of Jesus with those who are in desperate need of hope!

This year, our 15th Annual St. Matthew Turkey Trot is designated to support “Jameson Strong”, a non-profit established by the Doud family that sends Christian care packages to families experiencing a pediatric cancer journey.

Last year, I learned of Jameson Doud through the Michigan Lutheran Principals Google Group. Jameson was a second grader who attended St. Michael's Lutheran School, Richville, MI. After a significant period of not feeling well, Jameson was also diagnosed with a brain tumor. Doctors treated Jameson with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, and there was a period where Jameson was cancer-free. However, in May, his family received the devastating news that the cancer had returned. Jesus took Jameson to be with Him in Heaven on August 12, 2025.  

Jameson's family has formed a non-profit in his memory called "Jameson Strong." The mission of this non-profit is to create Christian Care packages for pediatric cancer families that contain many of the gifts and items that brought Jameson's family comfort during their lengthy hospital stays. Such items include: a cross with the child's name on it that can be placed in the hospital room (Jameson's pastor brought him a similar cross with his name on it during his first hospital visit; the family continued to take it to every hospital stay there after), a Bible, a devotional book, and a cross necklace like Jameson wore during his hospital stays, and more.

Since the formation of this non-profit in September, they have already sent out 42 Christian Care packages to families facing similar cancer journeys.  

Our Color Out Cancer Turkey Trot for Jameson Strong will be held on Friday, November 14th. Students are asked to collect pledges before the 14th. Forms have been distributed in class; however, you may also print one off with the link in the school newsletter.

On the morning of the Turkey Trot, students will run laps around our soccer field. Parents are also welcome to come and serve as cheerleaders.

Donors can give a one time donation or pledge per lap. All donations will be given to Jameson Strong to assist them with their very important mission of sharing Jesus with pediatric cancer families who are in desperate need of hope.

Students who raise over $50 will receive a T-shirt with the above logo. Students raising over $100 have the option to receive a sweatshirt.  

In addition, we realize that so many families are affected by cancer. As a result, we have started a Color Out Cancer prayer chain. In our church lobby, you will find a color chart of the various types of cancer. If you know of someone who is currently dealing with cancer, or who has survived cancer, or someone who you would like us to run in their memory, please write their name on a paper that reflects their color of cancer and put it in the designated box. Our Upper Grade students are making a chain of these papers, and we will pray over it at the start of our Turkey Trot.

As Christians, we treasure the fact that God’s love and faithfulness remain steadfast through both joy and heartbreak. In addition, we cling to the promise that through faith in Jesus, there will be beautiful heavenly reunions with loved ones!

God's richest blessings, and thank you for your support in this endeavor!

Mrs. Palka