On Oct. 6, 2024, downtown Guelph will come alive with inspiration, hope, and connection as the community gathers for the annual CIBC Run for the Cure. Joining 52 communities across Canada, this event is the nation's largest single-day, volunteer-led initiative supporting the breast cancer cause. Teresa Johnston, run director for community engagement, shares an exciting overview of what participants can expect and the impact of their involvement.
"We're thrilled to join forces with 52 communities across Canada for the country's largest single-day, volunteer-led event supporting the breast cancer cause!" Johnston exclaims.
This year's event kicks off with opening ceremonies, followed by a choice of a 1k or 5k fun walk or run. "We're gathering downtown for a morning filled with inspiration, hope, and connection," she adds.
Notably, this year's route offers beautiful views of the river and an opportunity to explore more of downtown Guelph, a new feature shaped by participant feedback.
Johnston's personal connection to the cause is profound. She became involved with the CIBC Run for the Cure 14 years ago when her daughter's friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. In 2012, Johnston herself was diagnosed with breast cancer, and shortly after, her daughter Megan was also diagnosed.
"Megan fought it for three years before we lost her to this disease at 33 years old," Johnston shares. Her team, Megan’s Minions, has raised over $30,000 so far, serving as a heartfelt tribute to her daughter.
Last year's event raised an impressive $130,000, thanks to the dedication of 557 participants from 52 community teams. These funds directly contributed to supporting individuals living with breast cancer, funding crucial research, treatment, and patient support programs.
"The funds raised help support the most promising breast cancer research across the entire cancer continuum," Johnston explains.
This includes prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and support for those living with or beyond breast cancer.
The compassionate support system established through these funds offers reliable cancer information, free wigs, rides to treatment, and accommodations for those needing to travel for treatment.
"By supporting the Run, you are helping us advocate for healthy public policies to prevent breast cancer and better support those living with the disease," Johnston emphasizes.
With a goal of 700 participants this year, the Guelph community's support is more vital than ever. Johnston acknowledges the pivotal role of volunteers in the event's success.
"The CIBC Run for the Cure is the largest single-day volunteer-led event in support of the breast cancer cause in Canada," she says. The dedication of the volunteer committee and event day volunteers is instrumental in making this event possible.
Participants who reach specific fundraising levels of $150, $300, $1,000, and $2,500 by the deadline are eligible for various rewards. Awards are given to the top fundraising team in each category and the top three individual fundraisers at each site.
"We run today to save lives tomorrow," Johnston declares. The long-term goals of the CIBC Run for the Cure include increasing breast cancer awareness and fundraising to change the future of breast cancer forever. Donations are accepted until Dec. 31, allowing continuous support beyond the event.
"Thank you for your support always," Johnston concludes, encouraging others to participate, raise funds, and support the cause. The CIBC Run for the Cure is not just an event but a movement uniting communities, raising awareness, and funding research to combat breast cancer.
Registration for the event starts at 8 a.m., with opening ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. The run/walk will commence at 10 a.m. Johnston promises special arrangements and highlights at the Guelph event location, ensuring a memorable experience for all participants.
For more information and to register for the event, visit cibcrunforthecure.com. Join the Guelph community on Oct. 6 and be part of a collective effort to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.