Run 4 Wishes begins
Sailors from HMCS Charlottetown, HMCS Queen Charlotte take part in 15th annual volunteer relay run
Sailors from HMCS Charlottetown and HMCS Queen Charlotte will be running across Prince Edward Island June 24-29 as part of the annual Run 4 Wishes campaign benefiting the Children’s Wish Foundation, P.E.I. chapter.
Now in its 15th year, the run will have a special finale in 2017 when a local wish child will take part in the run, as well as acting as “Commander for a Day” aboard the HMCS Charlottetown.
Run 4 Wishes was begun in 2003 by the ship’s company, who wanted to benefit the Children’s Wish Foundation in their ship’s namesake community. The run takes place across Prince Edward Island and will see sailors soliciting donations and operating for-donation barbecues at Sobeys grocery stores.
The team lead for the Run 4 Wishes this year is Sub-Lieut. Graham Austin, who will be joined by local wish child Patrick Murphy.
Patrick, 13, has polyarticular juvenile arthritis, which causes joint stiffness and pain. But he loves sailing and being out on the water. Hearing this, HMCS Charlottetown Commanding Officer Jeff Hutt has organized an opportunity of a lifetime for the P.E.I. teen.
“We are so excited to have Patrick and his family onboard,” said Hutt. “I personally
8:30 a.m. Start in East Point with stops in Souris, Bridgetown and Poole’s Corner 3 p.m. Finish at Montague Sobeys
Wednesday, June 28
8:30 a.m. Start in St. Peter’s Bay with stops in Peakes, Pownal and Tea Hill
3 p.m. Finish at Stratford Sobeys
Thursday, June 29
8:30 a.m. Start in Wood Islands with stops in Pinette, Orwell Corner, Vernon Bridge, and Hillsborough Bridge
3 p.m. Stop at Allan Street Sobeys, Charlottetown
4 p.m. Finish at HMCS Charlottetown To make an online donation, visit www. childrenswish.ca/runforwishes love the idea that the crew will be able to experience the incredible power of the organization that they work yearround to support.”
Patrick’s mother, Nancy Murphy, said Patrick, his brother and parents are excited about the opportunity.
“His dad and I can’t wait to see Patrick’s face light up the day we board,” she said. “Unfortunately, he doesn’t light up very often because of his physical pain.”
Patrick said he was thrilled when he found out about his trip aboard the HMCS Charlottetown.
“I felt like it was the best day of my life! “Not many kids get to go on a naval ship. Even through cadets, I would not be able to do something this large. It is an honour to be going on this ship and a
wonderful opportunity.”
The public is asked to look for sailors carrying an oversized boot, serving as the run’s collection jar. Those who would like to make a donation by phone or run a section of the event with the team can call the Children’s Wish Foundation at 902-566-5526.