Oak Grove Elementary and the St. Joseph community are holding “Muscle Up for Matt,” a 5K to benefit Oak Grove sixth grade teacher Matt Musser and his family.

The 5K Walk/Run will take place Saturday, April 30th at Missouri Western State University.

Matt Musser is battling a rare form of cancer, epithelial sarcoma, which can come and go. He was diagnosed with cancer in the fall of 2015. As a result, he has lost significant income due to hospitalization and medical bills. Musser, who is married with six children, is currently cancer-free, but this type of cancer frequently returns. In addition to his illness, the district said his family also experienced a house fire recently that has created another challenge.

“Matt is just a beloved person,” said Mike Otto, Oak Grove Principal and 5K Chair. “Life hits everyone at times, and we need to do a good job coming together as a community. It’s a really good lesson for all of us, especially the kids, to see everyone come together.”

Oak Grove has set up the Matt Musser Foundation through Nodaway Valley Bank to take care of donations. Those who wish to donate, but are not interested in walking or running may make a donation directly to the foundation.

Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. Children under 12 will have their race (1 mile) beginning at 9:30 a.m, and the adult walk/run will begin at 10:00 a.m. Children may do the 3.1 mile course. Adults are $20, eighth grade and under is $10, and 4-years-old and under is free.

Those who wish to register should return the Registration Form to Oak Grove Elementary, in care of Michael J. Otto, 5K Chair, and make checks payable to “Matt Musser Foundation.” They can drop your check off at the Oak Grove office in care of Michael Otto (Trustee) or Precious Love (Trustee). Donation deadline is April 22.