More than 2,000 participate in fundraiser for Cipriano family

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. (WXYZ) - More than 2.000 people took part in a special 5K fun run and walk to support the Cipriano family.

Among them was 17-year-old Tanner Cipriano, whose father was murdered and his mother and brother critically beaten with a baseball bat during an attack in April.

"It's always nice to run with a few friends," Tanner told the crowd,  "and even nicer to run with a few thousand of them."

The event was held at the "Farmington Family Y" to benefit the Cipriano Children's Trust Fund.

It was at the "Y" because Rose Cipriano, Tanner's mom who's still recovering in a rehab center, has worked as a trainer there.

Tanner's brother, Sal, also remains in the hospital.

Participants wore purple t-shirts that were designed by Tanner. Purple is his mom's favorite color.

"We all would like to do something," says Cipriano family friend Mary Talbott. "It's the compelling pull when you care about somebody who's been injured and this is obviously been a terrible tragedy, but events like this give us an opportunity to contribute, to do something for the family and to just show how much we care."

"Thank you for being there for my family and me since the beginning," said Tanner. "Day after day, you along with people from all over, continue to give us incredible hope and invaluable help."