I would like to nominate Zach Toole for the Legacy of Love award. Last year he nominated his sister-in-law, but this year we want to honor his devotion to his mother and this community.

Zach’s mom, Kelly, was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in May 2023. From that day forward, Zach poured his heart into spreading awareness, raising funds for research, and standing beside others facing this disease—all to honor his mom.
Just weeks after her diagnosis, Zach built “Kelly’s Crew” for the July Omaha walk. He led the charge, designing shirts, rallying family and friends, and lighting up Kelly’s heart that day. After the race, he told her, “Next year we’ll have the largest team. I’ll make sure of it.”

July 20th, 2024, Head for the Cure 11th Annual race day arrived and Kelly’s Crew showed up. Zach had worked hard as the team leader to inform even more family/friends of the race this year – and achieving the goal – we had the largest team. Kelly had been in the hospital just two days before the race, but she was determined to be there and she was with a beautiful smile on her face.

The past two years here, Kelly walked across the finish line. Heartbreakingly, Kelly passed in October 2024, making this year our first without her. We feel her presence every time we gather and know she’s cheering us on.
Since her diagnosis, Zach has become an ambassador for Head for the Cure, supported the Governor’s proclamation for Brain Tumor Awareness Month, shared his story on the Rare Enough Podcast, and assisted with a regional enrollment for female firefighters into the firefighter cancer cohort study.

Zach, we know how incredibly difficult it was for you to juggle your job schedule as a firefighter/paramedic, becoming a new father, and spending time caring for your mom during her battle. But your mom is so unbelievably proud of you for all that you have done and continue to do. Each day, remind yourself of this and continue to spread her love wherever you go.

2 Timothy 4:7
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith. We love you! -Kelly’s Crew