Community Unites for Sindy’s Run, Boosting Cancer Research

On a chilly Saturday morning in Kanata, approximately 70 individuals gathered to participate in Sindy’s Run, a fundraiser aimed at supporting pancreatic cancer research at The Ottawa Hospital. The event was inspired by the legacy of Sindy Hooper, an elite triathlete who battled pancreatic cancer for over 12 years before her passing in September 2024 at the age of 61.

Participants were welcomed by a brief appearance of sunshine, which many took as a sign of Hooper’s spirit among them. The atmosphere was lively, featuring a bake sale, and families brought their children and pets to join in the run or walk. The event successfully raised approximately $30,000 last year, and this year’s gathering aimed to honor Hooper’s commitment to raising awareness about pancreatic cancer.

Janet McKeage, chair of the Ottawa Hospital Foundation and a close friend of Hooper’s, expressed her gratitude for the community’s involvement. “I’m super happy to be part of this and all the work that Sindy, Jon (Hooper’s husband), and the group have done to raise money,” McKeage remarked. She fondly remembered Hooper’s infectious positivity, saying, “Even when she felt her worst, she always was positive and always believed in telling people to make the most of every day.”

The turnout was particularly heartening for McKeage, especially following a difficult Halloween marked by cold and rainy weather. She emphasized the critical need for funding in pancreatic cancer research, stating, “Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, and, unlike others, survival rates haven’t gotten better to this point.” She noted that Hooper’s resilience and dedication made a significant impact, saying, “Research needs funding.”

Innovative Research on the Horizon

At the event, Dr. John Bell, a senior scientist specializing in cancer research at The Ottawa Hospital, addressed the crowd, sharing insights into promising new treatment methods for pancreatic cancer patients. He acknowledged the limitations of traditional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation, which often harm healthy tissues while targeting cancer cells.

Dr. Bell discussed ongoing research into targeted therapies designed to enhance the immune system’s ability to identify and destroy cancerous cells. He also introduced the concept of a potential vaccine specifically for pancreatic cancer, which is still in the early stages of development but has shown encouraging initial results. “The money that you’re raising, which goes to The Ottawa Hospital, goes towards those sorts of efforts to try to make new therapies for patients that can really change the outcomes for their lives,” Dr. Bell explained.

His enthusiasm for the future of cancer treatment was palpable. “This new concept of a cancer vaccine is really quite exciting, and people have been dreaming of it for years. It’s now starting to happen,” he added.

The community’s support during Sindy’s Run not only honors Hooper’s memory but also contributes to vital research that can potentially save lives. As participants wrapped up their run, the atmosphere remained charged with hope and determination, exemplifying the spirit of unity in the fight against cancer.