For more than a decade, the annual Homeland Hospice 5K and Memory Walk has become a fall tradition for families and friends in Central Pennsylvania. On Saturday, October 3, 2026, more than 400 walkers and runners turned the event orange as participants wore orange t-shirts with the name of their loved ones. Groups of all sizes shared memories, laughter and tears as they ran or walked knowing they were supported by others who understand the journey of grief.
For Lisa Demko of Middletown, Homeland’s 5K and Memory Walk was a chance for her family and friends to celebrate the life of her beloved mother Irene Meck, who passed away in 2022. This year, “Team Meck” included four generations of family members and friends, making them the largest team in attendance.
“My mom was the lady who did everything,” Lisa says. “From leading Girl Scout troops to baking cookies for her neighbors, her life was about giving back to others.”
Lisa’s mother received services from Homeland Hospice during her end-of-life journey. Following her passing, Lisa’s father, Kermit, joined Homeland’s Men’s Breakfast Series, a bereavement group for men who have lost loved ones. Through the monthly breakfasts, Kermit made a dear friend who was also grieving the loss of his wife.
“The breakfast series really helped my dad connect with his emotions,” Lisa adds. “We are very grateful for Homeland’s support throughout the process.”
When the Meck’s family friend Pat O’Morrow needed care during her final days of life, Lisa quickly recommended Homeland Hospice. Team Meck proudly walked in Pat’s honor as well as Irene’s.
While the walk is a tradition for the Meck Family, many families participated for the first time. Brigid Lowe and Mary Prendergast of Camp Hill ran in honor of their mother who recently passed away. The family has started bereavement counseling through Homeland Hospice.
“Community is very important to our family,” Brigid and Mary say. “We needed Homeland more than we realized.”
For Brigid and Mary, the death of their mother is the first loss the family has faced together. They have found solace in their counseling sessions and hope to find new ways of dealing with this profound loss during further gatherings.
A highlight of the event included activity stations to help families deal with their grief. At one station, participants could write personal messages to their loved ones on a special piece of paper which dissolved when placed in water. Another station featured a rainbow arch where families could write the name of their loved ones. All attendees were given a packet of Rosemary from The Rosemary House & Gardens, a specialty shop in Mechanicsburg. Rosemary is a versatile herb and a symbol of love and remembrance that has been used for thousands of years.
Funds raised help Homeland Hospice provide supportive services like massage, music therapy and additional in-home relief hours as well as residents of Homeland Center whose financial resources have been exhausted. Homeland Hospice is a nonprofit hospice program that serves communities throughout Central Pennsylvania.
For Myra Badorf, assistant director of development for Homeland Hospice, the event is a chance to connect with staff, volunteers and families throughout the region. While the day is a busy one, she takes every opportunity to thank those who help make it possible.
“This event is a labor of love for all of us,” Myra says. “We couldn’t do it without the dedication of our staff and volunteers”
Photos and race results are now available. For more information about Homeland Hospice, call (717) 221-7890.
