Long Journey Helping Kids Attend Camp

BANGOR (NEWS CENTER) -- Last Friday, Roger and Hogan Marquis of Old Town went out for a run and they're still running. The father and son team is approximately halfway through what they are calling, a "wicked -long run".

The pair started their journey in Fort Kent and plan to run all the way to Kittery, a distance of more than 500 miles. As they run they are trying to raise money and awareness for Camp CaPella in Dedham.

Camp CaPella gives children with disabilities the opportunity to attend summer camp along Phillips Lake. The camp is one of two camps in the state that cater to children with special needs.

Tuition cost about $1,250 per child, per week. "We heard about Camp CaPella and it is a great opportunity for kids to go to camp," Roger Marquis explained while taking a brief rest in Bangor on Tuesday.

Hogan Marquis is a student at the University of Maine, he said as he and his father have made their way south, people have been stopping and offering them donations. Even if they don't have money they scrounge for something to give you," Hogan said. "I value $1 in quarters as much as a $50 dollar donations. That is what keeps me going."

The pair alternates between running and riding a bicycle, to split up the run. They have been camping along the route as they travel from town to town. On Tuesday, the pair traveled from Old Town to Dedham. Making brief stops in Orono, Bangor and at the Dedham School where they were greeted by hundred of screaming school children. They also visited Camp CaPella.

The Marquis' hope to finish their trip on Sunday, May 31st. If you would like more information, or if you would like to follow their progress, you can visit the related links section of this website.