The 8th annual ‘Scarecrow Skedaddle and Shindig’ festival took place at East Tennessee State University’s Ballad Health Athletic Center, hosted by Niswonger Children’s Hospital and The Goose Chase in Johnson City, Tenn. on Sunday.

This vibrant event showcased a series of races, including a 200-meter inclusive race, a one-mile fun run, and a 5K. After crossing the finish line, participants were invited to enjoy the festive atmosphere and activities at the accompanying “Shindig.”

Chris Jett, the CEO of Niswonger Children’s Network, highlighted the impressive turnout, noting that over 400 racers participated this year.

“Our races cater to everyone, from top-tier runners to some of our patients who require assistance, whether it’s walking aids or wheelchairs,” Jett explained to News Channel 11. “Our dedicated therapy services teams work closely with these patients, enabling them to experience the thrill of completing a race just like anyone else.”

Jett emphasized that the event’s primary objective is to foster community spirit through engaging activities and wellness initiatives.

“Our aim is to involve the community, encourage health and wellness, and provide our patients with a chance to participate in a race they might not otherwise have the opportunity to join,” he stated.

One family invited to the event is the Pritchard family, whose son is an amputee after injuring his foot in a lawnmower accident. Emmett Pritchard was immediately cared for by the Niswonger Children’s Network, according to Emmett’s mother, Emily.

“They would hold a tablet in front of him [Emmett], just to make sure he was comfortable, and just we never knew how much we needed to rely on Niswonger Children’s Hospital until we were in a life-or-death situation,” Emily Pritchard told News Channel 11. “Everyone was so open and loving and made us feel like we were really heard.”

Emily said her son, Emmett, was thrilled to hear that other children with experiences like his would be in attendance at the race event.

“When we told him there were going to be other kids here like him with prosthetics and in wheelchairs and just all kinds of different things, he was more excited that he was going to have somebody he could compare to,” Emily Pritchard said. “Emmett was important and his care was important; that’s really what set Niswonger apart from everybody else.”

Jett said while the hospital is committed to caring for its patients, they are thankful to grow the community beyond.

“Niswonger Children’s Hospital is really about caring for our patients in the hospital and in our community,” Jett said. “Anything we can do to support our patients and our community, we love to do.”

For more information about The Goose Chase or to sign up for future races, visit its website.