Reviewed by: Lacey Muenstermann
How to help baby heart patient Mary Catherine + families like hers in Birmingham’s Red Shoe Run Rockin’ 5K
Reading time: 4 minutes
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In April 2024, Melissa and James Ezelle of Fairhope were told their baby, Mary Catherine “MC” must be flown back to Children’s of Alabama for emergency care. She’d just had open-heart surgery there in February at only 3 weeks old.
The Ezelles bundled up MC’s twin, Elizabeth Anne, and rushed to Birmingham, unsure where they would stay. Enter the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama, which had a place for them.
More than just a race, the Red Shoe Run: Rockin’ 5K presented by McDonald’s on April 12 helps families with sick or injured kids like the Ezelles.
Read on for how to get involved!
Why this race really matters
“It was a relief to have a place close to our baby girl. We are so thankful they supported us when we had no time to think much less plan. It’s truly a place to stay away from home when your life is in crisis. Every time we’ve called, we have a place to stay, and that’s so meaningful.”
Melissa Ezelle
Amid these events, the Ezelle family and Melissa’s aunt, Holly McLellan, created a team to walk the 2024 Red Shoe Run: Rockin’ 5K. They strolled baby Elizabeth Anne while her sister continued receiving treatment at Children’s.
👉 Register today and help provide comfort, hope and support to families like the Ezelles.
2025 race goal + impact
While MC continues to improve, she will have her second open-heart surgery this summer. Her family team will again do the Red Shoe Run: Rockin’ 5K this April. At this writing, they’re in the lead for fundraising.
“Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama is just really wonderful. I want them to have the opportunity to serve a lot more families in the future that are in need, because it is such a great place. I am passionate about the mission because it is close to my heart.”
Melissa Ezelle
💰This year’s fundraising goal is $35,000, which will provide 233 nights of care for families who need it most.
Pick your race + join the party
Running skills are not required for this race. While the 5K is chip-timed for awards, the focus is on fun, fellowship and fundraising.
There’s a way for everyone to participate:
🏃 5K Run: Perfect for runners and walkers alike.
🎉 1-Mile Fun Run: Do a dash or just a jog.
⏰ Snoozer: Support virtually from anywhere!
- When: April 12, 2025 | 8 AM
- Where: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama, 1700 4th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
- More Info: Race Website
👉 Register today to help provide comfort, hope and support to families.
Running for good reason
This will be the sixth time Jason Black has done the Red Shoe Run. He’s served on the RMHC of Alabama board for nine years, and his company, Black Family Restaurants, owns and operates 16 McDonald’s locations in Alabama.
Black says the same purpose motivates his participation in everything related to RMHC of Alabama—to help families when they need it most.
“The Ronald McDonald House is a home for families that need them. It gives them a sense of family, a place to go home. That is so helpful in those difficult times. That kind of support is invaluable.”
Jason Black
His advice just a couple of weeks out from the race? Every donation helps, and there’s still plenty of time to round up a team, push the news out to your social media networks and rally support.
Run for prizes + stay for the block party
Time awards will be given to age groups, plus prizes are up for grabs, including:
🏆 Largest Team – Extra Mile Award
🏆 Top Fundraiser – House Heroes Award
🏆 Best Team Spirit – Most Enthusiastic Award
🏆 Best Costume – Rock your best outfit!
Follow RMHC of Alabama on Facebook for updates and inspiring stories as race day approaches.
Ready for a day of fun with a purpose?
👉 Register today and help provide comfort, hope and support to families.
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