Bridge to Hope hosting free cardboard boat race to support local cancer patients

NEW LIMERICK, Maine (WAGM) - A local nonprofit that supports cancer patients in the area is hosting its second annual Cardboard Boat Race this Saturday at Nickerson Lake in Crescent Park.

Bridge to Hope assists people going through any type of cancer in the area by donating gas cards and providing other support based on what a family may need, according to Kim Folsom, a member of the organization’s Board of Directors.

About the event

The race begins at 1 p.m. There is no registration fee, refreshments are free, and families are encouraged to attend to cheer on racers or build a boat of their own.

About Bridge to Hope

Folsom said her connection to the organization is personal.

“I was actually diagnosed with cancer in 2006, the first walk, and my sister-in-law invited me to join the walk,” Folsom said. “Kathy Kennedy had started it as a passion that she had. And in 2007, I joined in with Kathy, myself, my sister, and a couple other local people. And we’ve just flourished since then.”

The cardboard boat concept reflects the experience of cancer patients, Folsom said.

“One day you’re a box and you’re full. Then you hear that you have cancer and your box kind of empties out and it flattens,” Folsom said. “And as you go through your treatments, your support team is the duct tape that pulls the boat back together again.”

The organization funds its programs through fundraisers, including the annual Bridge to Hope Walk. Folsom said events like the boat race serve a purpose beyond fundraising.

“When you’re going through that, it’s nice to have just a day, a few hours to just take your mind off everything that’s going on,” Folsom said.

Get involved

For more information or to sign up, visit the Bridge to Hope registration form or follow the organization on Facebook.