Community Corner

The CUP: Cranberry Community 'Angels' to the Long Family

Tears flowed and hugs and kisses were given during Saturday's Cranberry CUP.

As she swung an imaginary bat, Kim Long explained she would rather be playing softball than watching from the sidelines.

The beneficiary of the 2013 Cranberry CUP, Long couldn't take to the field Saturday morning—doctor's orders.

But nothing could suppress her smile. 

"At least I get to eat funnel cake!" she said while sneaking a piece of the sugary confection off of her daughter's plate. 

About 700 people took to the fields at Community Park in support of Long, who battles Hodgkin's Lymphoma daily.

The experience of receiving rather than giving is new to Long, according to her best friend Nancy Hodges, who nominated Long along with her church for the Cranberry CUP.

Long gives what little she has to others, never letting the children in the trailer park where she lives go hungry.

"She takes care of people. Anybody needs anything, flat tire, broke down car— she'll drop everything," Hodges said. 

Long described the experience as "very humbling." 

Another 140 residents laced up their running shoes and 144 picked up their golf clubs, during a 5K and golf tournament in support of Long and her family.

According to Chris Corcoran, director of marketing and public relations for the Cranberry CUP, she expects at least $100,000 to be raised for the Longs.

With the donation of some Marriott points the Cranberry CUP was also able to surprise the Long family with a trip to Hawaii. 

"They're really deserving of it," Corcoran said.

The support of the Cranberry community was overwhelming for Long, who choked up while verbalizing her thanks during the CUP's opening ceremony. 

"I thank every one of you. I don't know all of you, but I thank God that you're all here," Long said. "You are all angels." 

The Cranberry CUP helps residents in need year-round  and accepts donations on their website.

Since 2000, the non-profit has raised more than $1 million, which has gone to chosen inspirational families, scholarships, building the new playgrounds in Community Park and much more in support of the community.

"Without you, life would be so much harder," Long said. "You lifted our spirits. You lifted our hearts, and you carried us to where we are right now."

Want to leave a message of support for Long and her family? Share it in the comment section below
 

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