Thank you

Thank You for Making Our 18th Annual Mark Walden 5K a Success

We are filled with gratitude as we celebrate another incredible year of the Mark Walden 5K. This past Saturday, September 19th, our community showed up with heart, purpose, and unity — and because of you, the 18th annual event was truly special.

To our supporters, sponsors, runners, walkers, volunteers, vendors, and partners — thank you for your unwavering commitment. Your energy, generosity, and dedication continue to strengthen our mission and uplift families affected by Sickle Cell Disease across Tennessee.

A special thank you to our Grand Marshals, Memphis Grizzlies’ Jaylen Wells and ABC‑24 President & General Manager Christopher Franklin, for lending their voices, leadership, and enthusiasm to this year’s event. Your presence brought excitement, visibility, and joy to everyone in attendance.

We extend heartfelt appreciation to the City of Memphis for your support, collaboration, and care in helping us host a safe, welcoming, and impactful event.

And to the Walden family — thank you for your continued support, your presence, and the love you bring each year as we honor Mark’s legacy. Your commitment keeps his spirit alive and inspires our community to keep pushing forward.

Every step taken, every dollar donated, and every moment shared helps us honor Mark Walden’s legacy and continue raising awareness for sickle cell warriors and their families.

Thank you for making the 18th Annual Mark Walden 5K unforgettable.

We look forward to continuing this journey together.

Keeping a legacy alive

Mark Walden, a former chief meteorologist at ABC24 in Memphis, was an inspiring figure not just for his work in meteorology but also for his courageous battle with sickle cell disease. He passed away in 2013 after living with the disease, a hereditary condition that causes red blood cells to assume a crescent or “sickle” shape, leading to various health complications including pain crises and anemia.

In his memory, The Sickle Cell Foundation of Tennessee organizes an annual walk/run event to raise awareness and support for those affected by the disease. The event continues to draw large crowds, raising funds for treatment and education, and it keeps Mark Walden’s legacy alive in the fight against sickle cell. The event is also a means to support families impacted by the condition through testing, social services, and advocacy initiatives.

Mark’s battle with the disease and his public role brought much-needed attention to Sickle Cell, furthering efforts to improve awareness and healthcare options for those who suffer from it.