WESTPORT — Rachel Doran died young.

Her grandfather is taking steps — literally — to help ensure the promise of her life, and others like her, is not lost.

Rachel Hope Doran, a 2015 graduate of Staples High School and rising senior at Cornell University, died at age 21 after a rare reaction to a common medication in 2018. Besides her academic achievements, she was described by family and friends as a talented fashion designer and cook.

After she died, her family established a non-profit, Rach’s Hope, “to address the challenges families face during and after a child’s critical illness requiring an extended stay in intensive care,” according to the organization’s website.

The charity provides “families with emotional and financial support, and resources to help them navigate the immediate and ongoing complexities involved with severe illnesses which require prolonged hospitalization,” the website adds.

In support of that mission, Doran’s grandfather, Michael Isenberg pledged to walk 1,000 miles in his 80th year. Isenberg — affectionately known as “Pa” – plans to fulfill his pledge by crossing that milestone Oct. 2 during a fundraising walk at Compo Beach.

To mark the occasion, Doran’s family organized the fundraiser to benefit Rach’s Hope, with the thought, “Hey, let’s make it a celebration and invite the entire community to walk the 1,001st mile with Pa,” according to a press release.

The event, dubbed “Walk the Extra Mile with Pa,” will take place at 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct 2. 

In addition to the one-mile walk, music, pizza and beverages will be part of the activities. Ticket holders also will get a Rach’s Hope hat.

To purchase tickets, donate or learn more about Rach’s Hope, visit RachsHope.org