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Annual Valerie Fund 5K Kicks Off In Verona

VERONA, NJ (CBSNewYork) -- The annual Valerie Fund Walk and 5K was held in Verona on Saturday.

As WCBS 880's John Metaxas reported, the horn sounded Saturday morning for what has become an annual ritual, as thousands walked to support the fund.

The charitable organization works with children with cancer and rare blood disorders and their families to make the trying time easier for the whole family.

Annual Valerie Fund 5K Kicks Off In Verona

LINK: Learn More About The Walk

David Gelband, 22, was wearing the costume of Captain Hope – a kind of superhero for the kids.

"A lot of them are sick, but they are making this trip because they look forward to this day every year," Gelband said. "So that's where I get all the energy for today."

CBS 2's John Elliott was also on hand for Saturday's event and had a chance to speak with Madeline Holt, the leader of Team Cupcake.

"I called the team, 'Team Cupcake' because cancer is not just about me, it's about everyone," Holt said.

The Valerie Fund has been in operation for 36 years and helps more than 4,000 children with cancer and blood disorders each year.

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