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This will be a way for Jodie to step back into her life.
- Josie McLeish
THERE will be a lifetime of memories and love to celebrate when more than 100 people come together and walk for Courtney Keast.
Mum Jodie will step back into the world and her new reality with the support of her family and friends after losing her daughter in a boating accident earlier this year.
Courtney's Crew will wear bright purple shirts - Courtney's favourite colour - when participating in Run for Kids.
Family friend Josie McLeish, who will complete the 5.5-kilometre walk on April 13 with her four children, said there would be laughter and tears as people came together for Courtney.
"There are so many families just trying to cope and it's had such a ripple effect. It's hard to believe the impact it's had," she said.
"The dance community, the school, the parish, the wider community have all felt the loss and I don't think it gets easier - you just learn to manage.
Ms McLeish's daughter Sarah is best friends with Courtney's sister Maddie and she said it was important to talk about Courtney with her children.
"She will always be remembered and everyone is experiencing and feeling this differently," she said.
"Jodie hasn't seen a lot of people from the community since the funeral and she's still putting one foot in front of the other.
"But this will be a way for her to step back into her life."
Courtney spent several days in the Royal Children's Hospital following the incident.
Ms Keast and Maddie said the walk was a way to thank staff and remember their bright girl who "left an impression on everyone she met".
"Everything that should have joy has a sadness now - it's a double-edged sword," Ms Keast said.
"People really want to help our family and this is a way of showing that we are thinking of Courtney and all the other children who need us."
She said Courtney's team had already raised $5000 for the Royal Children's Hospital.
"There are so many other families who need the children's hospital and they look after you when you're at your most vulnerable," she said.
"The staff handled this most horrific time in our lives with compassion, kindness and care.
"Although they could not pull off a miracle for my Courtney, they tried. We just want them to know what that means."
Family friend Kristy Moloney said the day would help bring a positive focus to the situation.
"We will be there with open arms to support Courtney's family and the support has reached beyond just Kyneton now - there's support from the whole region," she said.
"It's been important for Jodie to know we are there and we feel the loss with them." To donate, go to runforthekids2014.gofundraise.com.au/page/CourtneyKeast