Annual southwest IL holiday event has aided young people in medical need for 10 years

What started as a young girl’s way to help a classmate’s family has turned into a community celebration of giving back — and enjoying the outdoors — in Shiloh. The annual Holiday Hilltop 5K Run/Walk recently celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Event Director Neil Jansen said over $280,000 has been raised during the past 10 years to benefit a young person battling a challenging medical condition.

“It’s incredible. It’s stressful having a sick child, and helping the family out is important,” he said.

Since 2012, Corpus Christi Parish has hosted the run/walk every year. In addition to the 5K route, there is a half-mile fun run/walk as well.

With 462 registered runners and walkers, and countless dedicated volunteers, the Dec. 12 benefit supported the family of Ford Kelly Braxmeier, to help with past and future medical expenses.

Ford was born prematurely July 11, 2021. At only 27 weeks, he was transferred to St. Louis Children’s Hospital, placed on a ventilator, and diagnosed with chronic lung disease.

“After many complications and setbacks, including several viruses and infections, Ford was able to have his tracheostomy and gastrostomy tube surgery and began showing positive signs of improvement,” said Vicky Jansen, one of the organizers. “He has since been placed on a home ventilator after spending over 13 months in the hospital.

“On behalf of the Holiday Hilltop committee, thank you to all who donated time and items to the event, braved the cold, purchased items, showed support, or even said a prayer. We could not be successful without the support of those who came from near and far, virtual and in person. Thank you for your support and patience,” said a posting on the event’s Facebook page.

For his family, seeing the growth occur, and the joy expressed, makes it special, Neil Jansen said.

“It is tremendous. It brings together the community,” he said. “It really sets the table for Christmas.”

The committee keeps up with the families — particularly on social media — and they come back and help, he said.

“We become good friends with the families,” he said.

Jansen said he and his wife used to run in half-marathons, but no longer. The skill range varies of participants, that’s why the fun run is a nice component, he said.

“We have a lot of walkers participate,” Neil Jansen said.

Those who could not participate in the walk/run could make donations — cash or online auction item, bid on silent auction items online, purchase raffle tickets and bake sale items.

“All of our committee works year-round and has been in assigned roles. We have very generous donors. It’s heartwarming to see people just come to support the family. The parishioners and all the people help make this possible,” he said.

Neil Jansen’s daughter, Emily, started it all after she learned of a classmate’s family struggles. She wanted to do something to help. Now she is a senior at Butler University.

“She came up with the idea and saw it through. She approached the parish,” he said. “I am most proud that it’s been going for 10 years.”

Why Holiday Hilltop?

Now the process is that the committee has their first meeting in August-September and determines the beneficiary. Then in mid-to-late October, planning begins in earnest.

The event is called the Holiday Hilltop because the church in Shiloh is the highest point in St. Clair County.

“The last mile is very challenging uphill,” he said.

Inspired by the Rock ‘n Roll Marathon, organizers decided to add live Christmas music. Performers are stationed about every half-mile.

“It makes it just a little bit different and makes it a little more festive,” Neil Jansen said.

‘Restores your faith in humanity’

Musicians usually return every year, but there will be a spot open on occasion that is quickly filled.

As for participants, they really make it fun, he noted. Some dress in costume.

“I’ve seen Buddy the Elf costumes and Santa Claus, as well as other characters in holiday get-ups,” Neil Jansen said. “We’ve had it all.”

Helping out a young child and their family is a good way to spread cheer, and people respond to the call, he said.

“It restores your faith in humanity,” he said.