Happy Smackah 5K fundraiser supports Longmont boy with leukemia

Cooper Rusaw, a third grader from Longmont, Colorado, is the focus of this year's Happy Smackah 5K fundraiser. He was diagnosed with leukemia in December and receives chemotherapy every 10 days. The local community is supporting him by designating him as the "Happy Smackah" for the event. The Happy Smackah 5K encourages participants to either run or walk, and it will take place at McIntosh Lake on May 10. Each year, the event helps a student or faculty member from the St. Vrain Valley School District who is facing health challenges. Cooper's mother, Brittany Rusaw, expressed her gratitude for this recognition. The fundraiser has been supporting local families since 2011. Proceeds from the event will go to the Rusaw family, helping them with financial burdens while Brittany takes time off work to care for Cooper. She described the community's support as genuine and heartwarming. Cooper’s treatment is expected to last for 2.5 years. His mother was shocked by his diagnosis since he had been healthy before. Cooper continues to participate in sports, playing basketball and planning to join a baseball team. He is also excited about participating in the 5K, saying, "I’m going to run it." Cooper's siblings are helping him cope by spending time together and providing emotional support. His sister Bria often writes him notes to uplift his spirits. Karen Clancy-Cribby, a board member for the event, noted that Cooper's resilience made him an ideal candidate for the Happy Smackah. Over 250 people had registered for the race by Friday, and new sponsors have joined in to support Cooper. Clancy-Cribby expressed gratitude for the community’s involvement and support for Cooper. For more information or to register for the race, visit happysmackah.com.