The volunteers behind the CIBC Run for the Cure are celebrating the event's 25-year anniversary this fall, and they’ve got plenty of things planned for the day of fundraising and remembrance.
This year, the event is all about the people who have made it a success over the years. After all, the Kelowna run has raised over $5.2 million.
The Run for the Cure is the largest single-day, volunteer-led event dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research, support programs, health education and advocacy initiatives.
Since its inception, the event has raised $445 million across Canada.
Held on Oct. 6, 2019 in City Park, the run is open for all to attend. You can walk, run, volunteer, or just come out and support the participants.
“We all run for someone. Some of us run in memory of loved ones and some run for those who have had, or are living, with cancer,” says Deina Albrecht, director of the run.
“We come together as a community to support those affected by cancer and help raise money towards our goal and promise to make breast cancer beatable.”
Albrecht shared an example of the difference that their participants have been able to make. Teece’s Troopers, in support of a woman named Teresa, is one of their all-time top teams.
Teresa was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. Sadly, she passed away in May 2013, and was never able to attend the run with her supporters and teammates.
However, the team, which includes her daughter Jennifer, has done the run every single year in her honour. In doing so, they’ve been able to raise $53,000 for breast cancer research and support programs.
“It’s because of the funds these dedicated teams raise through the CIBC Run for the Cure that we know more than ever before about how to prevent, diagnose, treat and live with, and beyond, cancer,” says Albrecht.
If you’re wondering what’s in store for attendees, Albrecht says that it is a special occasion for everyone who has been affected by cancer.
“We are not only celebrating 25 years of CIBC Run for the Cure in Kelowna and those that are survivors, we also honour those that lost their lives and those that live with cancer,” she says.
“We have a special place for all affected by cancer – our Hope Lounge where people come together to share their experiences, remember friends that are gone and meet new friends. This event has a special atmosphere and you need to experience it to fully understand it.”
In preparation for the 2019 event, they’re encouraging people who have attended in past years to send them pictures to share in a slideshow on run day. Just send your photos, as well as how long you’ve been participating and why, to kelownarunrd@ccscloud.org.
The CIBC Run for the Cure starts at 8:30 am on Oct. 6, 2019. The run begins at 10 am.
To celebrate the special day, people will be able to win raffle prizes and giveaways. There will also be entertainment on site, including some tunes from DJ Invizible.
Children can look forward to a bouncy castle, face painting and a kids tent.
If you’d like to get involved, visit their website to register and start fundraising.
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