HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - Thousands gathered in Holyoke to honor Maddie Schmidt, an eight-year-old girl who passed away from a rare brain cancer, DIPG, in 2022.

The Magic for Maddie 5K is now in its fourth year and aims to raise funds for pediatric brain cancer research and support families affected by childhood cancer.

"Maddie was amazing. She really was the definition of kindness, love, and light," said Nora Schmidt, Maddie's mother.

During Maddie's diagnosis, she experienced the community's support at the first Magic for Maddie 5K Family Fun Walk and Carnival. After Maddie's passing, her family continued the tradition, organizing events that included gymnastics, soccer, bounce houses, and face painting.

"Since we started, we've given over a half million dollars to families, and of tha

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