A small but spirited crowd gathered in downtown Vass on Saturday, May 3, to take part in the Frye Foundation’s annual 5K Run/Walk for Diabetes and Mental Health Awareness. Participants of all ages and abilities walked or ran around Vass to bring attention to two issues that have long impacted local families, according to founder Curtis Frye.
Now in its 11th year, Curtis Frye and his wife, Wilma, launched the foundation after diabetes impacted the lives of several loved ones—including Curtis’ father and brother—and after local youth were lost to suicide.
“We started the walk when my brother Larry had his legs amputated,” Curtis recalled. “We have a history of diabetes. My father died from diabetes.”
The Fryes aim to raise awareness about diabetes and mental illness and see that communities are equipped with resources, hope, and faith.
“None of us are perfect,” said Curtis. “None of us are completely fit or completely deserving. We’re all a work in progress: mental health, physical health … it’s all part of the process.”
Saturday’s event began with a prayer and welcomed runners, walkers, church groups, and families to participate. The first church with five members to cross the finish line won a traveling trophy, meant to be given back and passed on to next year’s champion.
Joel Frye took first place in the 5K with a time just over 23 minutes.
Curtis explained that above all else, he believes the mission is rooted in faith.
“It’s about chasing the cross,” he explained. “It’s encouraging people to stay fit—the temple of the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Those of us who believe, we do physical activity and protect the temple. We work out, we change our nutrition, we make ourselves healthy enough to be an example, to worship, and to keep the temple fit.”
The Frye Foundation also hosts other outreach events throughout the year, including galas, speaker series, and youth camps focused on fitness, STEM education, and wellness. They’ve partnered with local schools and colleges to introduce students to health sciences and brought in counselors to guide conversations around mental health.
“Genius lies in opportunity,” said Curtis, paraphrasing Albert Einstein. Then he added, “America is great about discovery because we give everybody an opportunity.”
Looking ahead, Curtis and Wilma shared their hope of expanding awareness efforts through brochures, podcasts, and potentially organ donor campaigns.
“We don’t all have to agree,” Curtis said, “but we do have to love each other. They say it’s OK to not be OK. We live in a world where people can get help.”
Feature photo: Curtis Frye speaks to the crowd at the Frye Foundation’s annual 5K Run/Walk for Diabetes and Mental Health Awareness in Vass on May 3.
~Article, photo and video by Sandhills Sentinel Assistant Editor Abegail Murphy. Abegail has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2021.
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