Runners And Walkers Take To Pavement For Chicago Hot Chocolate 15K/5K

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Lots of people pounded the pavement in the Loop Sunday morning for the Hot Chocolate 15K/5K.

The run returned to Chicago this year after going virtual in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Runners and walkers raised funds for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital – helping kids and their families as they battle catastrophic diseases.

Two women who participated told us why they loved being out for the run on Sunday – and in years past.

"I get the energy from the people and hanging out with my sister-in-law here – we just enjoy it," said Jeanette Kilo-Smith of Bolingbrook.

"We are happy to be alive," added her sister-in-law.

There are Hot Chocolate run-and-walk events in cities around the country. The next one is on Sunday, Nov. 21 in Columbus, Ohio.