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The BC Cancer Foundation's second Weekend to End Breast Cancer an enormous success
The Weekend to End Breast Cancer delivers over $12 million since its launch in 2004, an unprecedented amount, benefiting the BC Cancer Foundation. Sunday is 2nd day in two day event
August 21, 2005, Vancouver, BC - Yesterday, the BC Cancer Foundation announced that 1,803 Walkers raised $5.3 million in their Weekend to End Breast Cancer, a two-day, 60 kilometre walk to raise funds for breast cancer research in British Columbia.
Walkers in The Weekend to End Breast Cancer had no problem finding the inspiration and motivation to get up early this morning and continue the second half of their 60 kilometre journey. "You open your mouth to complain and then take a second to look around you. Finding the inspiration," said Sandy Gerber, who is walking in the Vancouver event for the second year, "is no problem, because you realize you are walking with some women who have been through much more pain than just some sore muscles. There are some women walking this weekend who are still fighting the battle with breast cancer. Plus, the energy of everyone involved in this event, and especially all the kids and people who honk their horns along the route- really keep us going!"
Walkers set out early Saturday morning after an uplifting opening ceremony at the Plaza of Nations. Hours later, they arrived at a "Tent City" erected at Killarney Park, where they were greeted by hot showers, meals and live entertainment. Hundreds of volunteers and crew members are on hand over the course of the two-day event to provide continuous support including meals, water and snack breaks, gear transport, portable restrooms, street safety, and comprehensive medical services – even foot massages.
"It takes a tremendous amount of planning – and hundreds of volunteers - to be able to look after so many participants and ensure their safety as they wind their way through the city over a two-day period. I am so humbled to have been able to walk again in the Weekend to End Breast Cancer, along side breast cancer survivors, and hear so many inspirational and moving stories. A huge, thank you to everyone who participated and see you next year," said Mary McNeil, president and CEO, BC Cancer Foundation.
"For those who have been touched by this disease, and for the future of the next generation who may be affected, discovery can't wait. The funds from the walk will help speed us to our goals- thank you for supporting us," said Dr. Sam Aparicio, the Nan and Lorraine Robertson chair in breast cancer research at the BC Cancer Agency. Dr. Aparicio walked in the event as part of Team BC Cancer.
The closing ceremonies tonight will be the major finale to what has surely been a life-changing journey for the participants in The Weekend to End Breast Cancer benefiting the BC Cancer Foundation. To celebrate this major accomplishment, Walkers will arrive to the Plaza of Nations for the Closing Ceremonies which commence at 4:00 p.m. Here they will be greeted by cheering family and friends for a beautiful, inspiring, and emotional ceremony!
Proceeds from the Weekend to End Breast Cancer benefiting the BC Cancer Foundation will support breast cancer research and care programs at the BC Cancer Agency. The BC Cancer Agency, a member agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, provides a cancer control program for the people of British Columbia, including prevention, screening and early detection, diagnosis and treatment services, support programs, community programs, research and education.
In addition to the funds raised, this event is important in generating awareness about breast cancer. The BC Cancer Foundation also hopes to build awareness and expand its donor base to maximize funding for BC Cancer Agency research and care programs.
For more information about the event, or to register as a participant for next year, please contact (604) 684-WALK (9255), or sign up online at www.endcancer.ca.
For more information
About The Weekend to End Breast Cancer:
Shannon Kennedy, Communications Specialist
778-893-3714 (cell)
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