Community Events Honour Memories, Foster Connection and Help Save Lives
July 23, 2020.
We’ve been so inspired by the commitment, tenacity, and focus shown by Canadians especially during these unprecedented times as they find ways to raise funds and awareness and bring us along for the ride (literally!). Routes changed, tires were replaced, and traditional events looked a little different this year, but that didn't stop these community champions.
Here are just a few examples to highlight…
We met Bianca Hayes of Vancouver, British Columbia, last year when she joined us to send Cécile Hryhorczuk off on her cross-Canada ride in support of Ovarian Cancer Canada. A year later, on June 16, 2020, Bianca embarked on her own ride from British Columbia to Halifax in honour of her sister, Katrina, who died of ovarian cancer at the age of 32.
“My sister, Katrina, was my idol. Like most little sisters I spent a good part of our childhood stealing her clothing and tagging along with her whenever I could. Katrina, to me, represented what I always felt I lacked, she was assured and confident in who she was, what she wanted and how she would make it happen. I always admired her for those traits, and since her death I have been trying to embody them,” says Bianca.
A cross-Canada cycle is no easy endeavour and Bianca is a true testament of strength, commitment and courage. If you followed Bianca’s journey on social media, you would have seen her ride through flat tires, RV battery mishaps, wild weather conditions, and the mental and physical obstacles of a long ride, all in the midst of a global pandemic.
“Katrina was a fighter, so I am going to do everything I can to continue that fight,” says Bianca.
Bianca cycled over 5,900 km to raise much needed funds to further research progress against this disease and along the way, she also earned the title of the fastest woman to bike across Canada!
Family, friends, neighbours and even complete strangers, donated to Bianca’s ride. Over $40,000 and counting was raised in support of Ovarian Cancer Canada and BC Cancer. The funds will be split across both organizations that hold a special place for Bianca and her family.
Bianca is an inspiration. On behalf of Ovarian Cancer Canada and the women and families affected by this disease, thank you for supporting Bianca’s ride and cheering her on! Learn more about Bianca and her story here.
Okay, so maybe biking across Canada isn’t your thing, but a 5k in your own ‘hood works too…
Have you heard about the Beau’s 5k for Ovarian Cancer Canada? The annual Beau’s 5K takes place in a small town in Ontario called Vankleek Hill.
The event started small five years ago at Beau’s Brewery, a local craft brewery, in honour of Ashley Courtois (Cowan), a young woman who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The event grew each year during Ashley’s three-year journey. Ashley passed away in 2018, but the event continues in honour of her strength and spirit, and her love of running.
Knowing this year would be different, the team at Beau’s was determined to see the event go on even though participants were unable to gather at the brewery, rally around the tractor and enjoy a post-race cold one which is the typical tradition.
On Saturday, July 4, participants laced up, wore their teal ribbons with pride and took off on their 5 km route. Participants were encouraged to run or walk their own route, track their distance with the pedometer provided in their race kit, and share pictures on social media to show that we’re all in this together. Teams rallied and gained momentum including Laurie McKay-Levac's Legionnaires, Ottawa City Counselor Diane Dean's Team, and Michelle Vachon's Bells, to name a few.
Despite COVID-19 and despite social distance, over $42,000 was raised at the 2020 Beau’s 5k, surpassing the fundraising goal of $40,000!
Check out this special thank you video from Elisabeth Baugh, CEO of Ovarian Cancer Canada, for all participants and supporters of the Beau’s 5k.
On behalf of Beau's Brewery and Ovarian Cancer Canada we are in awe of your efforts and so grateful for your support.
Inspired to get moving? The annual Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope takes place on Sunday, September 13, 2020. During ovarian cancer awareness month in September, this event is an annual tradition for many women and families across the country. While the 2020 Walk will look different, we are pleased to announce that the Walk must go on, and it will be virtual. This means you can invite your friends, family and colleagues from across the country to register, or you can gather your core group and walk around the block. No matter how you choose to participate on Walk Day, be sure to Walk for her. Register online today and find more information about the 2020 Walk.
We are so thankful to our generous and committed community members who continue to spotlight this important women’s health issue.
Your support enables Ovarian Cancer Canada to champion the health and wellbeing of women with ovarian cancer and others at risk of this disease while advancing research to save lives. With your help, there is no limit to what can be achieved!
See the many ways you can get involved by donating, starting your own event and more. For more information about starting your own event, please contact Tara Defoe, Community Engagement and Events Manager at tdefoe@ovariancanada.org or call toll free: 1 (877) 413-7970 x 235.