Steps of Support and Strength

 CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Families, friends, and supporters laced up their shoes this weekend in Chattanooga, not just for fitness, but for a powerful cause.

The first-ever race hosted by Chattanooga Tracheostomy Families brought the community together to raise funds and awareness for children living with trachs and ventilators. 

Participants took part in a 5K, a fun mile, and enjoyed food trucks and a silent auction, all to support families facing a life-changing medical journey.

A tracheostomy is a surgical opening in the neck that helps a person breathe when their airway is blocked or underdeveloped.

For many children, it’s a lifeline, but it also brings a host of challenges for their caregivers.

Chattanooga Tracheostomy Families is a growing support group of 44 members, offering hospital support, community events, education, and advocacy. 

They’re currently working to become a nonprofit, and this race is a major step toward that goal.

For the families walking and running, this wasn’t just a fundraiser, it was a celebration of strength, resilience, and community.