JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Four thousand runners pounded the pavement for a 15-year-old who loved to help others. "It was the kindness of her heart that prevailed," said Blake Wilson.
McKenzie Noelle Wilson died suddenly in 2010. But every runner is keeping her legacy alive through her foundation. So far they have built two study centers in Jacksonville, and three orphanages in Africa.
"I couldn't imagine three years ago that we would be here where we are today," said her brother, Blake.
"It was a tough deal, but they have really turned it into a positive," said Jaguar Quarterback, Blaine Gabbert.
Among the crowd are athletes in green who ran for another Bolles student, 10-year-old Ryan Perry. "He was really, really fun. And just a special kid," said classmate, Libby Camp.
The fifth grader accidentally strangled himself in a ropes obstacle course in September. "You definitely hold your kids tighter," said Paula Camp.
"Anytime anything like that happens, it has an unbelievable impact on you and your perspective on life," said Greg Camp.
They are two tragedies that thousands are helping to turn into triumphs together with every step they take.
