Run for the Cure returns Sunday

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This article was published 30/09/2023 (1078 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure returns to Brandon for its 22nd year on Sunday.

The event will kick off from Assiniboine Community College at 1430 Victoria Ave. East at 9 a.m.

Run for the Cure has a storied history of raising funds to support breast cancer research and providing other vital services to Canadians.

“Since 1992, the sum of $462 million has been raised to fund breast cancer research projects,” Brandon site director Ashley MacDonald told the Sun. “The money raised helps to fund groundbreaking breast cancer research, offer support services to help people better manage life with breast cancer, shape healthy public policies to prevent cancer and support those living with the disease, and offer trusted breast cancer information for all Canadians.”

Over the past two decades, MacDonald explained, the Canadian Cancer Society and the former Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation have invested more than $360 million in breast cancer research, funding more than 1,400 scientific and community grants.

With the help of donors, she said, they continue to make strides in preventing, treating, and improving the quality of life for those diagnosed with breast cancer.

“The 2023 edition of the CIBC Run for the Cure in Brandon aims to surpass the achievements of the previous year. In 2022, the event generated revenue of $46,941 with 187 participants. This year, our revenue goal has been set at $55,000,” she added.

MacDonald also shared additions to this year’s event.

“2023’s event includes special activities, including a Kid Zone with giant yard games, a coffee bar sponsored by Justin Perreaux of RE/MAX Valleyview, and a special Balloon ‘Pathway to the Run’ activity found in our Hope Lounge,” she said.

MacDonald expressed optimism about the upcoming event’s turnout.

“We anticipate about 200 individuals on-site for Sunday’s event, and that includes both participants as well as volunteers,” she said.

“We’ve been planning the event since May and have worked diligently to ensure a safe atmosphere for everyone.”

When asked about special guests, MacDonald mentioned some unique features.

“We don’t necessarily have any celebrity guests, but we do have exciting additions this year. We have a new photo booth, which our participants will enjoy. Additionally, there’s an activity at our Hope Lounge, specifically for individuals who have been affected by breast cancer.”

MacDonald said that the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure is not only a community event but also a significant driver of breast cancer research funding. Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Canadian women, making the contributions from events like this vital.

According to MacDonald, this year’s run is organized and carried out by Canadian Cancer Society staff and volunteers, adding that their support helps keep costs down, ensuring that more funds are directed toward groundbreaking breast cancer research, compassionate support services, trusted cancer information, and advocacy on behalf of all Canadians.

“The registration opens its doors at 9 a.m., followed by the opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. Participants can choose between a five-kilometre or one-kilometre walk or run, both starting at 10:30 a.m.”

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