Run for the Cure marks 21st year in city

An event that brings hope and positivity to the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women returns to Peterborough later this month.

The Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure is taking place at Del Crary Park on Sept. 30.

It’s been running for 21 years in Peterborough and 27 years in Canada overall.

CIBC has been behind the event since day one.

“Having them on board is crucial and the fact that they’ve been part of the event so long, speaks volumes to their commitment not only people living with breast cancer, but the communities across Canada,” said Alison Payne, senior manager for Peterborough and Durham Canadian Cancer Society community offices.

CIBC Run for the Cure is largest, single-day, volunteer-led event dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research, support programs, health education, and advocacy initiatives.

Peterborough is one of 56 locations to host the event.

Typically, 80,000 Canadians take part across the country, with about 400 participating locally.

Some walk or run on their own, while others form teams for the event.

There’s a 1 or 5 kilometre jaunt to choose from. A minimum donation of $45 is required.

Survivors or women newly diagnosed are welcome to be a part of the day without walking or running, Payne said.

A tent will be set up for survivors to connect and share their experiences with one another.

“They support each other the best because they know what each other are going through,” Payne said.

Breast cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Canadian women. One in eight women are expected to be diagnosed in their lifetime.

But the event is anything but a solemn affair. Participants often get dressed up in pink or costumes for it, and the energy is high, Payne said.

“It just really brings a lot of hope and positivity to what can be a very difficult time for people.”

To register for the run, go online to www.cibcrunforthecure.com, call the Peterborough Canadian Cancer Society office at 705-7423823, or sign up the day of at 8:30 a.m.

Opening ceremonies are at opening ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. and runs get underway just after 10 a.m.

More than $430 million has been raised since the run began. Peterborough aims to raise $80,000 this year.