Maddie’s Footprints Forever Race Honors Babies Gone Too Soon

Remembering Precious Lives
LAFAYETTE, LA – “Even the smallest life leaves the deepest impact,” a sentiment shared by Lori and Travis McGrew, co-founders of Maddie’s Footprints. On Saturday, October 4, the 16th annual Maddie’s Footprints Forever Race will be held at River Ranch Town Square, Lafayette, honoring babies lost too soon while raising vital support for grieving families. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This event offers both remembrance and hope to families navigating infant and pregnancy loss.

A Community of Support and Healing
Organized by Maddie’s Footprints in partnership with Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s & Children’s Hospital, the race provides emotional and financial support to families affected by miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss. Mandy Cushing, Executive Director, explained how the organization was founded in 2010 after Maddie Noelle McGrew was stillborn in 2009. Despite the grief, the McGrews’ experience of community support inspired them to create a nonprofit to help others endure similar losses. Proverbs 17:17 teaches, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Through this race, families find comfort in shared understanding and fellowship.

Race Details and Participation
Nearly 1,500 participants are expected to attend this year’s event. Registration and packet pickup begin at 6:45 a.m., with a one-mile walk at 8:00 a.m. and a 5K at 8:45 a.m. A presentation follows at 10:00 a.m., bringing the community together in honor of the little lives remembered. Over the years, Maddie’s Footprints has assisted thousands of families across 19 parishes in Louisiana, providing compassionate care and resources.

Prayer for Families and Healing
Heavenly Father, we lift up every family touched by the loss of a child. Bring comfort to broken hearts, strength to grieving parents, and hope for healing. May Your love surround each family, and may events like Maddie’s Footprints Forever Race remind us to honor life and support one another with compassion and faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.