Charity launches virtual 5K run to raise funds
Participants asked to walk or run this month to support cancer centres
The Alberta Cancer Foundation has launched a virtual 5K run to help raise funds for the 17 cancer centres across the province.
Between May 1 and May 31, participants are encouraged to individually walk or run, using a treadmill or favourite pathway, a minimum of five kilometres in support of cancer centres.
For Alberta Cancer Foundation ambassador and Olympian Jamie Salé, the cause is personal. Salé said she first became involved a few months ago when the foundation reached out about hosting a gala.
“I was dealing with, at the time, a cousin who was 18 years old who was quite sick with cancer,” Salé said. “So I said, ‘You guys, your timing, it gave me goosebumps. Your timing is impeccable.’ I said I’m struggling with watching my cousin go through this. So I said any way I can give back, I would love to.”
Her cousin died in February from bone cancer and he’s not the only one Salé knows who has been diagnosed.
“I’ve lost an aunt to breast cancer, I’ve lost a grandpa to stomach cancer and now my cousin. That’s personally, but I know a lot of people that have had it. Too many.”
For Salé, it’s a no brainer to be involved as ambassador for the virtual 5k and to support and encourage others to participate.
“The weather is nicer, let’s get outside and get some exercise while we’re helping people with cancer,” Salé said.
She said her entire family will participate and her six-year-old daughter may even complete a five-kilometre walk.
“Whether I walk or run, it doesn’t matter. Just finishing it and showing some support is all we need,” Salé said.
Registration is open and is free for those under 18 and $20 for all other participants.
With the economic realities due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Salé said what matters most is participation and spreading awareness.
“That, to me, is really important to keep that going right now,” Salé said. “It’s $20 to join and there’s no judgment if you can’t do that, you can’t do that. But it’s $20 and I think $20 a person, for all the people that sign up, will go a long way and we can impact this province tremendously.”
According to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, more than 20,000 Albertans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. Donations will help provide vital services and support innovation, treatment and care at cancer centres across the province.
More information can be found at albertacancer.ca/virtual5k.