Zack was born to Melinda Pierce and Randy Mason. Zach was born with Down Syndrome, and his life brought great joy to his family. Zach accomplished much during his short time on earth and is remembered with love by all who knew him. In 2012, when he was 18, he graduated with the class he started school with. Walking across the stage to receive his diploma and receiving a standing ovation was a joyous time for him and his family, and a moment they will remember forever.

But, their joy would be short lived. In June 2012, Zachary became very ill and was admitted into the local hospital. He had pneumonia in both lungs. Three days later, he was transferred to a Birmingham hospital. By July 3, he was on a respirator and in a coma. By July 14, one of his lungs collapsed and by July 19, his organs began to fail. Family and friends, who had remained faithful with visits and prayers, realized it was nearing time to say their goodbyes to Zack. On July 19, he passed from this earth into the arms of Jesus.

Zach had made an impression on all who knew him. So much so, that in August 2012, friends and family decided to participate in a Down Syndrome Run. About 30 people wore shirts with a picture of Zack, calling themselves the “Zack Attack.” That was the first of the “Chicken Head” runs. They were called this because that was Zack’s pet name for all the people he loved. That same year, the 2012 Pell City Christmas Parade was dedicated to Zack, with the theme “In Joyful Memory of Zack Mason.”

The second Chicken Head Run raised funds for the Zachary Mason Music Memorial Foundation, founded to present music scholarships to deserving Pell City High School seniors.

Now, hundreds gather at Zack Mason Memorial Chicken Head Run. Zack would have loved the loud music filling the park, since he absolutely loved music. Each year, the foundation bestows a $3,000 college scholarship to a senior who plans to major in music. Shelby Weaver was awarded a music scholarship from Zack’s foundation.

She plans to attend Jacksonville University and said, “It helps me to know I have a community scholarship like I have. It’s support from home. Because Zack loved music like he did, it helps me continue what I’m doing.”

Zack’s life made an imprint on many.

Zack’s aunt Rhonda stated, “This is his element (crowds, music and runners). He touched so many people in his short life. It’s unbelievable. It’s really great that this race can help other students. He would be so happy.” 

One of Zack’s best friends, Adam, said that Zack changed his life. “When Zack died, I was heading down a path I didn’t need to go down. He changed my life…It was so sad to lose someone so close to us, but he inspired every life he met. He touched more people than most of us will ever touch in our life.”

Zack’s mother, Melinda, calls the memorial runs exciting and a testament to Zack. He was special and his legacy lives on through the annual event—now in its fifth year. Through the music, the memories, and the hearts of his family and friends. His monument says it all. “His heart overflowed with love and music to all who entered his life.”  

So, just in case you didn’t know what the Chicken Head Run is all about, you do now. It is a special event, that does special things, in memory of a very special young man.

It is held on a Saturday closest to Zack’s birthday and will be coming up this Saturday April 8 at Lakeside Park. There will be a 5K, 10K and 1-mile Fun Run with registration at 7 a.m. Race starts at 8 a.m. and will be chip timed. Registration includes shirt and door prize entry. You can also register online at www.runsignup.com. Proceeds go to provide music scholarships in Zack’s memory through the Zachary Mason Memorial Foundation.