EDMONTON — Thousands of people dressed in pink took over the streets of downtown Edmonton Sunday morning with the common goal of putting an end to breast cancer.
More than 7,000 people took part in the annual CIBC Run for the Cure, raising just over $1 million. The one-kilometre walk or five-kilometre run, which was held in more than 60 communities across Canada Sunday, raises money for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.
“It’s such an inspiring day. Everybody’s got their own teams and everybody’s fundraising, but at the end of the day we’re all in this together,” said Monica MacKay, a breast cancer survivor.
READ MORE: Thousands lace up in support of Run for the Cure
MacKay was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2011 and has participated in the run every year since. She also serves as a volunteer spokesperson for the event and said she’s met some incredible people along the way.
“Once you’re diagnosed with breast cancer you tend to meet lots and lots of amazing women who have been where you were or on their way on their own journeys,” she said. “Unfortunately, there are those who have not survived the disease.”
According to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, one in nine Canadian women are expected to develop breast cancer at some point in their life. About 25,000 Canadian women will be diagnosed with the disease this year.
While there is no cure, breast cancer deaths have decreased by 44 per cent since the peak in 1986 due to earlier detection through regular mammography screening, advances in screening technology and improved treatments.
“I’m a strong believer in the research that is done and that is continuing to be done… Early detection is key, mammography is key,” she said. “There’s hope. It can be beaten. It might not be the nicest journey around but it’s a journey that is doable and never lose hope.
“I get to watch my kids grow up so that to me is very important.”
Last year, the CIBC Run for the Cure raised $1.4 million in Edmonton.
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