Horses, hats and hope: Nashville's Steeplechase proceeds help kids fight cancer
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Thousands will gather at Percy Warner Park on Saturday for one of Nashville’s longest running traditions: The Iroquois Steeplechase.
But beyond the fashion and the fast-paced races, the event has a life-changing mission: Helping children like Caroline Lantz battle cancer.
Since 1981, proceeds from Steeplechase ticket sales have gone directly to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, raising more than $11 million to date. That funding supports everything from pediatric cancer research to family services, and for families like Caroline's, it means more access to critical care.
Caroline was diagnosed with stage IV high-risk neuroblastoma in 2017 at just four years old. Now 11, she's spent over seven years undergoing treatments, regular checkups and radiation sessions, and she’s still fighting.
“It makes me really happy,” Caroline said, “Because I know a lot of kids out there have to deal with this horrible disease and it just is going to a good cause, so it makes me really happy.”
Thanks to the advanced treatments and support at Monroe Carell, Caroline is not only surviving but also thriving. And this year will mark her first time attending the Steeplechase in person.
Organizers say the hospital has been the primary beneficiary of the event for over four decades, making a lasting impact on thousands of children and their families.
If you’re headed to the races this weekend, be on the lookout for Caroline and know that your ticket is helping kids just like her live to see another day.
MORE COVERAGE | Post positions set for 84th Iroquois Steeplechase in Nashville this Saturday
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