The air was crisp and somber Sunday morning as hundreds of runners and walkers gathered in Palos Heights.
They came together to honor the memory of Illinois State Trooper Clay Carns, a 35-year-old husband and father of two who was tragically struck and killed by a vehicle on Dec. 23 while clearing accident debris near Channahon.
Hosted by FIT4MOM Palos-Orland, where Carns’ wife, Meghan, works as a fitness instructor, the four-mile walk-run drew participants from across the community, inspired by his dedicated service and sacrifice. The route, precisely 6.512 kilometers, was a nod to Carns’ badge number, #6512.
“We are more than just a fitness franchise – we believe in building community and supporting local families,” FIT4MOM owner Ilona Mulica said. “When the news first reached us, our instinct was to act. We are running in Clay’s honor, with all donations going to the Carns family. The overwhelming response in just a week shows how deeply this has impacted our community.”
For those who attended, the event was more than a tribute; it was a way to show support for his grieving wife, Meghan, and their three-year-old son, Gray, and two-year-old daughter, Ally.
“Meghan is one of the kindest, most dedicated people I know,” Mulica, of Orland Park, said.
Meghan joined FIT4MOM as a client in Spring 2024 and became an instructor by October 2024.
“Her classes are both fun and efficient, and I never miss one,” Mulica said. “Meghan creates a welcoming environment for new moms and makes everyone feel at ease. Her love for her children and her strength as a mother is inspiring. The news of Clay’s passing has deeply affected our branch, and we are heartbroken. This run has always been and will continue to be free, held in his honor.”
The gathering on Sunday morning began at the baseball field parking lot of Memorial Park, just a block west of the Palos Heights Police Department. Originally planned for a smaller location, the event was moved to accommodate the overwhelming turnout, FIT4MOM members said.
“Meg is effortlessly friendly and welcoming; so easy to chat and laugh with,” FIT4MOM’s Playgroup Captain, Hannah Kennedy, of Beverly, said. “Fit4Mom is more than just a workout group, we are raising our kids together as a village. We especially lean on each other when parenting is difficult, and I cannot imagine a more difficult time. I am honored to help my friend in her greatest time of need, and I am humbled by the overwhelming response to this event.”
The participants ranged from seasoned runners to casual walkers and were all united by a shared purpose. Some wore Illinois State Police insignia, while others held signs of remembrance or donned shirts bearing Trooper Carns’ name. The atmosphere was both heartwarming and solemn, a reflection of the community’s shared grief and solidarity.
“This is for Clay, Meghan, and their children,” one runner said, pausing to compose herself. “It’s our way of showing them they’re not alone in this.”
FIT4MOM Palos-Orland waived registration fees and instead encouraged attendees to contribute through cash donations, Zelle payments, and gift cards. Essentials like Aldi, GrubHub, and gas gift cards were especially appreciated, with 100% of the proceeds directed to Carns’ family.
Contributions were also funneled through an online GoFundMe campaign, “GY6: Support Trooper Clay Carns’ Family,” which has drawn donations from across the country. The effort underscores a collective desire to ease the burden on Meghan and her children as they navigate life without their beloved husband and father.
Carns, of Orland Park, was laid to rest this week. He will be remembered by those who knew him as a dedicated state trooper and a devoted family man. His colleagues described him as someone who approached his work with integrity and heart, traits that made his loss even more profound, said Illinois State Police Trooper, Jan Sieczka, who worked with Carns for three years.
“Clay was one of the greatest people I knew,” Sieczka said. “He was like a brother to me. I can’t believe he’s gone”
Meghan, praised by her own colleagues at FIT4MOM as “one of the kindest, most welcoming individuals,” has inspired many with her grace and strength. The event’s organizers shared their admiration for her, saying, their hearts are heavy as they think of her and Meghan family during this difficult time.
“Meghan is an extremely kind and giving person,” Meghan Gushurst, FIT4MOM instructor, of Palos Heights, said. “She is an incredible mom and so welcoming to all the moms in our village. We’ve all been struggling with what we can do for her after this horrific tragedy, and we are happy to be honoring Clay with a walk/run in his memory. This is just one small way to show Meghan and her children the community that is surrounding them.”
As participants crossed the four-mile finish line, the weight of grief was palpable, but so was the warmth of community.