Calgary’s Run for the Cure Sets New Record, Exceeds $1M Goal

A vibrant gathering of over 5,000 participants transformed southeast Calgary into a sea of pink on October 1, 2023, as they took part in the 34th annual Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure. This year marked a historic achievement, with the event surpassing the $1 million fundraising milestone for breast cancer research and support programs. Calgary becomes only the second city in Canada, following Toronto, to reach this significant financial goal.

Kirsty McGowan, the Calgary Run Director, expressed her enthusiasm about the record-breaking achievement. “We’re really excited to be the second site ever across Canada to hit $1 million,” she stated. “It’s a huge testament to the city and what it feels like to have the community come together for a great cause.” The event was filled with energy, and McGowan noted, “It’s been a massive sea of pink all day.”

Earlier in the year, organizers set the ambitious fundraising target after raising $837,000 in 2022. Many doubted their ability to achieve this goal, but McGowan remained confident, saying, “Calgary is such a city of heart and community. It’s just really powerful to see it come together and be able to hit the goal.”

Participants chose between one- or five-kilometre routes, with funds directed towards breast cancer research, patient transportation, wig programs, and other essential supports.

Community Support and Personal Stories

Among the participants was Danielle Walsh, who has participated in the event for nearly 30 years. The cause holds deep significance for her following the loss of her sister to breast cancer in 2000 at the age of 38. “It’s a good cause, and it’s good community involvement,” Walsh remarked. “It’s hope and opportunity for people who have breast cancer. It’s a sense of community, so people don’t feel alone.”

Also participating was Karen Murphy, who was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago after a lump was discovered during a routine mammogram. “It was just like, ‘Well, that’s rude,’” she joked. Despite her initial shock, Murphy was grateful for the advancements in treatment, stating, “I never felt scared or that I was going to die.” Now back at work and feeling well, she credits events like the Run for the Cure for the progress made in breast cancer treatment.

“Three years later, I still feel great and things are good,” she added. “This is why there’s been so much progress with breast cancer, and other cancers as well. They’ve made leaps and bounds with the treatments, so we definitely need this.”

Inspiring Teams and Collective Resilience

Near the finish line, more than 60 supporters gathered as part of Celina’s Pink Power Warriors, a team created to uplift Celina Hall, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in May. Hall, a widow and mother of three, expressed her gratitude for the community’s support. “I’m overwhelmed with the love and support from people,” she said, reflecting on the unexpected nature of her diagnosis. “It just goes to show that when you’re faced with a challenge, people really do pull together.”

Breast cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Canada, with one in eight women expected to face a diagnosis in their lifetime. Since its inception in 1992, the Run for the Cure has raised over $507 million to fund breast cancer research and support programs nationwide. Donations to this cause remain open online, allowing individuals to contribute to ongoing efforts in breast cancer awareness and treatment advancements.