“I thought ‘This can’t be right’,” said organizer Gail Catherwood when she checked on how much had been raised through efforts by around 200 attendees celebrating and participating in activities starting from Simcoe Lions Park.
“Last year we raised $65,000 and this year we aimed for $80,000.”
However, when Catherwood looked at Sunday’s total later that afternoon, it was over $100,000.
“I couldn’t believe it! We put so much effort into it and had fantastic fundraisers along with major sponsors.”
That money is directed towards research on cancer, clinical trials, and direct support services for those fighting against breast cancer-essential resources for individuals like Missy Whitbread-Martin who shared part of her story with everyone there.
Whitbread-Martin joined co-workers last year to visit a mobile screening unit that came to her workplace in Brantford.
Her initial check-up led to more testing requests which she completed while being too wrapped up planning her wedding to think about much else.
Just weeks after getting married, Whitbread-Martin found out she had Stage 4 cancer affecting her lymph nodes, neck and collarbone.
After undergoing chemotherapy treatment followed by radiation plus numerous follow-up tests and care appointments, Whitbread-Martin is happy to say there’s no current signs of disease.
But with Stage 4 cancer diagnosis comes ongoing challenges; “This is why research into cancers along with early detection is so crucial because my journey started with just fifteen minutes during my workday that changed everything.”
There were many similar stories among those gathered together wearing shades of pink throughout.
Lorna Henderson represented one of Selkirk’s community groups known as Women of Selkirk who proved they could raise funds effectively.
“I’m a three-time cancer survivor – go big or go home – most recently diagnosed with breast cancer,” Henderson explained.
“Our group now has grown to 500 members who are very dedicated to community initiatives-we socialize together but also support local projects; every year we provide free Christmas dinners in Selkirk-and this time we brought in more than $14,000.”
As everyone warmed up before beginning their walk enthusiastically clapping along Jyll Carlos wore an adorable pink toque paired with an emblem indicating she’s currently facing down cancer yet celebrated crossing that finish line ringing a bell meant as triumph both personally as well as encouraging others going through similar battles against illness
Brantford resident Krista Gomez danced alongside Valerie Cardinal clad humorously dressed up inside an inflatable shark suit dubbed ‘Sharkira’, paused just long enough mention this happened mark first-ever run experience attended today.
“I battled against my own bout back then back again around2013 due high risks reoccurrence hence attending regular screenings vital knowing funding continues support such endeavors,” added Gomez further highlighting need awareness ongoing research efforts moving forward.
Tina Osuch works locally associated CIBC main sponsor running event since beginning past thirty years raising substantial amounts funds regionally benefiting all involved directly families experiencing hardships alike.
“With our family history filled multiple instances suffering via various forms Cancer incidence observed personally , and thus far none companies have done outreach quite like what CIBC has achieved here,” commented Osuch sharing heartfelt appreciation towards support received community surrounding them within midst these struggles
The inspiring Erna Willen proudly displayed eye-catching tee emblazoned boldly stating ‘Cancer touched my boob so I kicked its ass,’ reflecting resilience spirit behind countless survivors taking place today driven hope recoveries gained across board inspiring everyone present feeling warmth love showcased whole-heartedly event atmosphere !
“It’s heartwarming observe turnout turnouts reflecting reality facing multitude situations those affected-but knowing they’re united brings joy!” expressed Willen whose roots trace back originating directly tied connections established within town itself throughout years gone by.
This year’s CIBC-run initiative managed raised estimated sixteen million dollars spanning nearly fifty organized occasions nationwide anticipated participation exceeded sixty-five thousand individuals encompassing runners volunteers joining forces succeed achieve common goal !
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