It was a cold, dark October morning, as the members of PANCREATIC CANCER Canada’s team gathered in the wee hours of the morning eagerly awaiting the start of the 5K Walk/Run. All of us were motivated by a common goal - to make a difference, one step at a time.
We were walking in honour of a loved one ... we were walking to share our loss ... we were walking to support each other … we were walking to give hope to those currently battling pancreatic cancer … we were walking to support early detection research at Princess Margaret Hospital.
Our goal for our inaugural year was $10,000. Elva Gough, a director for PANCREATIC CANCER Canada, volunteered to chair this event and did a fantastic job - everything ran so smoothly, thanks to her enthusiasm and hard work. Volunteers greeted our team, which was comprised of 26 members including 5 children. The colour purple accented our clothing and united us in our cause.
Two additional teams joined us in raising money to support early detection research. Team Vander Zaag, comprised of 26 friends and family members, walked in memory of John Vander Zaag. Team Jani, comprised of 15 family members and friends, walked in memory of Devyani Jani.
One of the highlights of this event was the announcement that Mike Komisarek, Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman and alternate captain, would be our honorary captain. He was at the finish line to greet our team members. Mike sadly lost his mother to pancreatic cancer in 2005 and contacted our organization to lend his support to our cause. He also made a generous donation to our foundation in his mother’s honour.
Special thanks goes out to the members of TEAM PANCREATIC CANCER Canada, TEAM JANI and TEAM Vander Zaag as our collective efforts help raise $34,553.55 … AMAZING !!!
On behalf of PANCREATIC CANCER Canada, we would like to thank all of you who supported our efforts by walking, volunteering or making a donation to th 5K walk.Planning is underway for next year and Elva has set our goal at $50,000. We hope you will join us next year on October 17th and enjoy this wonderful experience.
Please see below for photos and highlights from this event!
