Through the Years of the FUNd Run with Becca Hughes and Kirsten Dean
By Misty McMillan
There aren’t a lot of existing records for the early years of the FUNd Run. According to Becca and Kirsten, and I can attest, once you execute a few of these races, they all start to run together. It wasn’t until we reviewed some pictures that Becca, then director of the Foundation, remembered there was a 5K and a 10K that first year on November 16, 2002.
“I would have never thought we had a 5K and 10K that first year and that it was in November,” said Becca.
Having the FUNd Run in November would mean it came just one month after the Ritz that year which was held on October 5.
That first FUNd Run course started at the hospital at the Dulin Center and meandered through the St. Andrews University campus.
Becca remembers the fun she had and the relationships she built while training for the event. That first year, she put together a training and fundraising team. They met every Saturday morning to run and prepare for the race.
Becca’s kids, Rachel and Walt, were 13 and 10 at the time. They too were up early on Saturday mornings to run – even when they’d rather sleep in.
“There are some things that happen in your life that change you for the rest of your life and that’s what this FUNd Run did,” said Becca.
One change was new friendships gained. She remembers her daughter Rachel becoming good friends with Emily Wood (Greg Wood’s daughter). They went to different schools but became friends because of the race, and they remained friends. Another life change is that Rachel continues to run to this day, including marathons. And it all started with this initial FUNd Run.
Another thing that happened was on the Wednesday night before the Saturday race when Becca and her kids were putting in one last practice near the St. Andrews track. Becca accidentally tripped over a concrete parking block. She said Emily was with them and asked Rachel if she had just seen her mom flying through the air. Becca had torn a hamstring. She couldn’t immediately walk or run after the accident but realized she could skip. She ended up skipping through the 5K race on Saturday.
Becca also held a bittersweet memory while reviewing pictures of her mom with her kids during the first race.
“Mom was there cheering us on that first year, but she would pass that next year,” remembered Becca.
Others were cheering them on too. Part of the team’s goals were not only to train but to fundraise. Getting people to support Rachel, Walt, and Emily was pretty easy. That first year the three of them raised $988.62 from supporters.
I asked Becca how conversations started about the first FUNd Run. She had participated in a race with her previous job. But she credits Ruth Glaser, then COO of the hospital, who gave them a good vision for the race, and they ran with it.
The FUNd Run was the first of its kind in our community and has become the longest lasting race at over 20 years. We realized while putting all the pieces together that they weren’t consecutive years. A few were skipped here and there in those early years.
During that first year, they didn’t have a race company or chips in bibs like today, but Becca remembers having individuals out at the finish line manually keeping track of the time as runners crossed.
Thank you, Becca, for taking the vision and keeping it going for so many years before passing the baton to our other longstanding Foundation Director, Kirsten Dean.
I asked Kirsten if she was involved with the Foundation in 2002. She said she hadn’t joined yet. During that time, she was pregnant with Jennings but joined the Board the next year. After serving on the Board for many years, in 2011, Kirsten became the new director of the Foundation.
Kirsten continued the format of the run to include a Half Marathon that started a few years earlier. It began at the hospital, went through St. Andrews, and out on the Hasty Road then beyond General McArthur’s on Barnes Bridge down to Plantation Road.
Kirsten shared a story of one of our employees, Tammy Holloway, who injured her hip one year while running the half marathon.
“Tammy wanted us to carry her over the finish line,” said Kirsten. “We probably shouldn’t have, but we did.”
Kirsten was also instrumental in adding the Ribbon Walk in 2014 which included luminaries and ribbons of all colors to represent all types of cancers. The Ribbon Walk would be replaced a few years later by the 1-Mile Spirit Walk where Spirit Markers line the first mile of the race to honor or remember loved ones affected by cancer. We still promote these today.
Moving the race Downtown happened in 2018 according to Kirsten. The race partnered with SpringFest allowing race participants to enjoy all the downtown festivities after the run.
“We had to go virtual in 2020,” remembered Kirsten.
Instead of racing together folks were encouraged to race at home and post pictures of their FUNd Run using the hashtag #ScenesFromMyFUNdRun.
I joined the Foundation in 2022, and thought it was such an honor to be a part of the staple events these two great ladies had poured their blood, sweat, and tears into.
My first FUNd Run stayed much the same, but last year, the race shifted to McDuffie Square. We re-certified the course to avoid some traffic and changed the start to Railroad Street. SpringFest had moved to Suds and Swine weekend, so we decided to create a FUNd Fest and invite the Cancer Survivors Celebration to join us after the race.
It’s interesting to look at an event over 20 years and watch it change and grow. Sustaining an event like this for so long is a testament to the support from our communities. Our records show the first race raised around $14,000. Last year was one of our highest grossing years, topping $50,000 thanks to the continued support of our sponsors – especially Service Thread who has sponsored for many of the 20 years. Others have supported the FUNd Run over the years including Nic’s Pik Kwik, Hasty Realty, Wade S. Dunbar Insurance, Bill Evans/Trophy World, Boles Funeral Home, and so many others.
Join us on April 26 to celebrate our 20th year.
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Scotland Memorial Foundation celebrated the generosity and impact of its donors at the 23rd annual Highland Society event, an evening recognizing philanthropic partners whose support strengthens healthcare close to home. The program featured donor recognitions across giving societies, special awards, and an update on the Healing Begins Here Capital Campaign to expand the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center. “Tonight is about gratitude,” said Nancy Adcock, Chair of the Highland Society. “This gathering honors the friends and partners whose generosity fuels a healthier future for our community.” Guests enjoyed live music by Dos Eddies—the acoustic duo of Greg Miller (a Laurinburg native) and Mark Weathers—along with culinary offerings from Morrison Healthcare Food Service, desserts by The Blue Crayon Café, beautiful florals by Brady’s Flowers, bartending services by Dial Ventures, and the gracious hospitality of The Southern Dream venue. Philanthropy That Changes Lives In her remarks, Misty McMillan, Executive Director of Scotland Memorial Foundation, thanked donors for their transformational support. “Your generosity shows up in real moments of care—when a new mother receives lifesaving help at home, when a neighbor can finally hear with a second hearing aid, when a patient leaves the hospital with the medications they need to recover,” McMillan said. “Because of you, lives are changed every day.” In 2025, donor support helped the Foundation provide nearly $1.2 million in direct patient and program assistance across the region. Highland Society: 185 Members Strong, with 39 New Inductees Established in 2002, the Highland Society recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations contributing $1,000 or more within a calendar year. In 2025, 185 donors were members of the Highland Society, collectively contributing $904,449 to support patient care, community health initiatives, and critical services. 39 first-time Highland Society members were honored during the event: Mrs. Santana Ammons Dr. Scott and Mrs. Carolyn Andrews AYM Crossfit Mr. Sully and Mrs. Erin Blair Breeden Law Office Carolina Solution, Inc. Ms. Monique Cayton Dr. Robert Chamberlain, Jr. Mr. Pat Dial & Mrs. Faline Locklear-Dial Mrs. Beth Dunbar Mr. William & Mrs. Berta Floyd Mr. Brian & Mrs. Stephanie Freeman Ms. Renee Harvey Ms. Anne Hoover Ms. Christina Hunt Hunt & Brooks Attorneys at Law Ms. Megan Jernigan Ms. Michell Jones Mr. Andy and Mrs. Ann Kurtzman Laurinburg Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Mr. Clay Locklear Mr. Alvin & Mrs. Wilma Lowry Mr. Scott & Mrs. Crystal McDannold Morrison’s Mobile Detailing Philip Van Every Foundation Mrs. Mary Pickens Ms. Andrea Pruitt Dr. Holly Reaume Dr. Sanjay Shah Mr. Duncan J Sinclair III The Citizens Bank The Curtis Foundation, Inc. Mr. Anthony & Mrs. Catherine Vitali WABTEC Corporation Wagram Church of God Mr. Mark Ward Ardurra Group North Carolina Marilyn Wolf Charitable Fund Z Smith Reynolds Foundation “Highland Society members are the heartbeat of our mission,” said Autumn Lauzon, Donor Relations Specialist. “Your commitment ensures care remains accessible, compassionate, and close to home.” Skye Club: Lifetime Giving of $25,000+ The Foundation also recognized new inductees to its highest donor society, the Skye Club, honoring donors whose lifetime giving totals $25,000 or more. As of December 31, the Skye Club includes 120 members, with seven new inductees honored this year: Philip Van Every Foundation — a first-time partner whose $25,000 grant supports mammogram screenings, ensuring access as demand grows through the Foundation’s new mobile unit. First Capital Bank — a longtime supporter that, prior to closing, made a generous gift to support cancer patients. Ron and Carole Gibson — recognized for their personal support; Ron recently named a cancer center exam room in honor of Carole as a heartfelt Christmas gift. Dr. Deborah Hanmer — continuing her late husband’s legacy through support for the FUNd Run and the Cancer Center Expansion. Mrs. Mary Pickens — inspired by Dr. Hanmer’s example, joining as a supporter of the Cancer Center Expansion. Robeson Health Care Corporation — a steadfast partner in community health under the leadership of Mr. Tim Hall. Mr. Jay and Mrs. Julieann Todd — celebrated for their longstanding support; Jay is past Chair of the Foundation Board and an advocate for wellness initiatives. “Congratulations on achieving this milestone,” McMillan said. “On behalf of the many lives you’ve touched—thank you.” Fulton–Tornow Society: Leaving a Legacy The Fulton–Tornow Society, established in 2007 and named for the late Mr. Hewitt Fulton and Mrs. Martha McNair Tornow, recognizes donors who have made planned giving commitments to the Foundation. Members acknowledged during the program were listed in the event materials. 2025 Foundation Awards Business of the Year — 2025: Carolina Solution, Inc. was recognized as the Business of the Year for their rapidly expanding partnership over the last few years. Owner, Michelle Ellerbe first connected with us when we learned she taught Zumba and invited her to help lead activities at the FUNd Run. Not only did she bring incredible energy to the event, she immediately stepped forward as a business sponsor. When we launched our Bling Out Breast Cancer Competition, she as a breast cancer survivor and her company joined enthusiastically - mobilizing an impressive network of supporters and raising over $5,000, ultimately winning the competition. Her commitment didn't stop there. After attending one of our Foundation meet-and-greet sessions last year, she deepened her involvement even further by securing a head table at the Ritz as a White Glove sponsor, demonstrating her belief in our mission and her dedication to our community. Friend of the Foundation — 2025: This award recognizes an individual who supports the Foundation in countless ways throughout the year - someone who shows up, speaks up, and lifts up our mission as a true ambassador. Beacham McDougald is known by almost everyone, if not personally, then by his posts on Facebook. Chances are you have followed his journey, his courage, his resilience, his humor, and his honesty as he's navigated the challenges of cancer. Through every high and low, one things has remained absolutely clear - his deep love and unwavering support for Scotland Health. Beacham's generosity reaches far beyond social media posts. It shows in his actions, his advocacy, and in his belief in the work we do. He inspires others, he champions our mission, and he reminds us what the power of community truly looks like. Healing Begins Here: Campaign Announcement & Steering Committee Recognition The Foundation invited attendees to join the Healing Begins Here Capital Campaign to expand and renovate the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center—a $10 million project with a $2 million community goal. Since the quiet phase began in August, the Capital Campaign Steering Committee—Carol McCall, Wayne Wike, Jim Mason, Danny Caddell, Paul Brooks, Faline LocklearDial, and Sandra Wilkes—has helped raise more than $900,000 through outreach, relationship-building, and donor engagement. “Our region’s need is urgent—patient volume has grown exponentially since the Center opened,” McMillan said. “This campaign ensures every patient is welcomed with dignity, privacy, and timely care—right here at home.” Planned enhancements include: A larger, safer waiting area and onsite lab draws to reduce travel and wait times 25 infusion chairs with private treatment bays and additional exam rooms to reduce delays Dedicated spaces for genetics, nutrition, and education A nourishment area and private restroom within the infusion area 24 additional parking spaces for easier, weather-safe access A dedicated private exit to protect dignity on the hardest days Lead donors who have made commitments to support Healing Begins Here include: Mrs. Nancy Adcock Dr. Scott & Mrs. Carolyn Andrews Mr. Bruce and Mrs. Katilda Blackmon Ms. Myra W. Bodenhamer Paul & Pauline Brooks Family Mr. David & Mrs. Sandra Burns Mr. Danny & Mrs. Carolina Caddell Mr. Mike and Mrs. Carol Coughenour Dr. Judith G. Curtis Mr. Bob & Mrs. Kirsten Dean Mr. Pat Dial & Mrs. Faline Locklear Dial Mrs. Elizabeth Dunbar The Honorable Craig & Mrs. Patricia Ellis Mr. William & Mrs. Berta Floyd Mr. Robert & Mrs. Martha Floyd Mr. S. Hewitt & Mrs. Martha Fulton III Mr. Ron & Mrs. Carole Gibson Mr. Robert Gordon Mr. James and Mrs. Claire Graham Dr. Deborah Hanmer Mr. David & Mrs. Ellen Harling Mr. Joel & Mrs. Susan Hartwell Hasty Realty Mrs. Donna Hicks Mr. Bill & Mrs. Pam Hill, Jr. Ms. Anne Hoover The Honorable John & Mrs. Laura Horne, Jr. Dr. H.H. and Mrs. Rebecca Hughes, III Hon Christopher Rhue and Dr. Jennifer Isenhour Jane Graham McKay & Katherine Hill McKay Endowment Fund Mrs. Karen G. Jenkins Mr. Allen & Mrs. Meg Johnson Dr. Olujide & Dr. Gani Lawal C.W. And Dorothy G. Love Foundation Lumbee Guaranty Bank Dr. Frederick & Mrs. Lynn Mabry, Jr. Mr. James & Mrs. Lynn Mason III Mrs. Lynn Massey Mrs. Carol McCall McCulloch England Architects Mr. Beacham and Mrs. Lynn McDougald Mr. Robert and Mrs. Joyce McDow Mr. Jeff & Mrs. Leigh-Ann McKay Mr. Allen & Mrs. Jane McLaurin Mr. Steven & Mrs. Allison McLean Mr. Bill and Mrs. Misty McMillan Nic’s Pik Kwik – Mr. Ken and Mrs. Carol Nichols and Mr. Dean and Mrs. Candy Nichols Mrs. Mary Pickens Mr. David and Mrs. Jeannie Pope Mr. Reg & Mrs. Pat Poteat Mr. Matthew & Mrs. Melanie Pracht Mr. William R. & Mrs. Terri Purcell, II Ms. Janelle Rhye Robeson Community College Foundation Scotland Health Care System Auxiliary Mr. Michael & Mrs. Melissa Singler Mr. Chip & Mrs. Evelyn Shytle Mr. Lucien and Mrs. Patricia St. Onge The Curtis Foundation, Inc. Dr. Stewart & Mrs. Carol Thomas Mr. Jay & Mrs. Julieann Todd Mr. Mark Ward and Family Mr. Wayne & Mrs. Debbie Wike Dr. Jeremy & Mrs. Sandra Wilkes Mr. Bradley & Mrs. Sarah Williams Mr. John & Mrs. Ruby Williamson Mr. Jim & Mrs. Frances Willis Mr. Andrew & Mrs. Emily Womble Mr. Greg Wood and Ms. Janet Smith The Foundation also recognized Distinguished Donors enrolled in annual giving plans: Service Thread, McCulloch England Architects, Scottish Pines Rehabilitation and Nursing, and Scotland Health Auxiliary. Misty McMillan gave special appreciation to Outreach Committee Chair Nancy Adcock for her service of 18 years, and to Foundation staff Autumn Lauzon, Ashley Hunt, and Chanel Carmichael for their work throughout the year.
Scotland Memorial Foundation proudly announced the community phase of its Capital Campaign: Healing Begins Here during the annual Highland Society Banquet, an event dedicated to honoring the generosity of the Foundation’s supporters on February 12. The campaign aims to raise $2 million toward a $10 million expansion and renovation of the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center. This transformative project marks a significant milestone for the region’s cancer care. The expansion will add more than 8,000 square feet of new space and fully renovate the existing facility, dramatically improving comfort, privacy, and the overall experience for patients and families. “This is a project that began conceptually in 2019 and is finally coming to fruition,” said Jennifer Wilkes, Director of the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center. “Our community deserves a state-of-the-art environment that reflects the exceptional care our team already provides. These improvements will allow us to treat more patients, offer greater privacy, and create a more dignified and healing experience.” A Center Built on Vision and Determination Executive Director of Scotland Memorial Foundation, Misty McMillan, shared a story that underscores the Center’s enduring importance. “I recently learned that nearly 30 years ago, a feasibility study concluded that building a cancer center here would not be successful,” McMillan said. “But the committee and board at that time believed in this community—they believed in what was possible. They moved forward anyway, and because of that courageous decision, the Center has grown exponentially and become an essential resource for countless families.” Leadership in the Quiet Phase: Steering Committee Drives Early Success The success of the quiet phase of the campaign is due in large part to the dedication and advocacy of the Capital Campaign Steering Committee: Paul Brooks, Danny Caddell, Faline Locklear-Dial, Jim Mason, Carol McCall, Wayne Wike, and Sandra Wilkes Beginning their work with the Foundation in the summer of 2025, this group helped build momentum, inspire early donors, and cultivate key relationships. Their leadership has already contributed to raising more than $900,000 toward the campaign’s goal. “We are profoundly grateful for our Steering Committee,” McMillan said. “Their passion for expanding cancer care in our community has been instrumental in building the foundation for our public phase.” Project Enhancements Will Elevate Patient Care The expanded Scotland Cancer Treatment Center will feature: A significantly enlarged chemotherapy lab with 25 infusion chairs Private treatment bays designed for comfort and dignity New exam rooms to improve clinical flow and decrease wait times A private restroom within the infusion area A dedicated exit allowing patients to leave discreetly and comfortably following treatment These enhancements support the Center’s mission to deliver high-quality, compassionate care close to home, reducing the need for patients to travel during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. A Community Effort The Healing Begins Here Capital Campaign invites community members, businesses, and philanthropic partners to join in ensuring that exceptional cancer care remains accessible for generations to come. “Every gift—large or small—helps strengthen the future of cancer care in our region,” McMillan said. “Healing truly begins here, and it begins with all of us.”
For many of our patients, the world has slowly grown quieter over the years — not because they stopped listening, but because they simply could not afford the tools they needed to hear. While the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSDHH) offers support, they are only able to fund one hearing aid every six years, leaving many patients without the second device that is essential to balanced, functional hearing. This year, thanks to generous donor support, the Scotland Memorial Foundation stepped in to bridge that gap. One young man, living with moderate to severe hearing loss, struggled daily to communicate — at work, at home, and in nearly every conversation. Because of your contributions, he received two hearing aids, allowing him to fully participate in the world around him for the first time in years. He wasn’t alone. In total, your funding provided 10 hearing aids for patients, ranging in age from 24 to 88, including a disabled gentleman, a blind woman, a patient on dialysis, and two widowed women — each of whom experienced life changing improvements in their ability to hear and connect with others. For these patients, your donations didn’t just provide devices — they provided dignity, independence, and the joy of conversation. What DSDHH could not supply, you made possible. Because of you, the world is a little louder, clearer, and kinder for those who need it most. This year, our Foundation Grants program provided $121,120 for patient assistance and programs. During the year we offer 3 cycles where departments within the hospital can apply for grants to help support their patients and programs. The funds for this program are raised through our employee giving campaign – the Tartan Club and generous donors like you.
