More than 1,298 participants in Surrey came together on Oct. 5 for a future without breast cancer at the 23rd-annual CIBC Run for the Cure at Bear Creek Park.
They raised $243,605 for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, helping to bring the total from nine sites across B.C. to $3.168 million.
The fundraising efforts and volunteer support of 127,000 participants and volunteers in 65 communities across Canada raised $25 million, to be used toward reducing the incidence and mortality rates of breast cancer and helping support the breast cancer community.
"Today, thousands of Canadians joined together to inspire hope by participating in the CIBC Run for the Cure," said Wendy Slavin, CEO of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation - BC/Yukon Region.
"Whether walking or running, volunteering or donating, these individuals united to form a community of support. And this support is bringing us one step closer to our vision of creating a future without breast cancer."
CIBC has been the proud title sponsor of the CIBC Run for the Cure since 1997.
"On behalf of Team CIBC, our thanks to all of the participants, the donors, and especially to the volunteers who make this event possible," said Christina Kramer, executive vice-president, CIBC and CIBC's Executive Run Sponsor. "Each year we are inspired by the thousands of dedicated Canadians who come together to help create a future without breast cancer."
Four awards were given in Surrey:
• Determination Award sponsored by Pandora (top individual fundraiser): Tracy Saumere
• Corporate Spirit Team Challenge Award: Canron's Boobs of Steel
• Friends and Family Team Challenge Award: Tracy's Team of Hope
• School Team Challenge Award: The Stars
Sponsors incuded the Health Sciences Association of BC, Windset Farms, Image Group Inc. and BC Nurses' Union) as well as our local sponsors (Fit for Women Gym Viva Care, Safetech Scaffolding, CTV, JRfm 93.7, 102.7 The Peak, The Indo-Canadian Voice and The Surrey Leader.
The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure is Canada's largest single-day, volunteer-led fundraising event, which raises funds for breast cancer research, community education and advocacy programs.