EDMONTON – They kickboxed, squatted and got their downward dog on in the name of cancer research at this year’s Bust a Move for Breast Health.
The sweaty, six-hour fitness extravaganza was in support of the clinical trials unit at the Cross Cancer Institute.
On Saturday, 350 people packed the Edmonton Expo Centre. Each participant had to raise a minimum of $1,000 in order to attend. This year’s event brought in $330,200.
“All the money stays here in Alberta,” said Global News reporter and Bust a Move participant Laurel Gregory.
“I think it’s important for people to know that this is going to affect the future of your sister, your daughter, your friends.”
The event is close to Gregory’s heart. As a child, an aunt she was very close to was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“She went on to survive, to go on and thrive, to beat the disease. We’re so close. She’s now 70 years old and we drink wine together and travel together and run stairs together.”
Bust a Move started in Halifax in 2010 and has since expanded into communities across Canada. In the five years it’s been in Edmonton, the fundraiser has brought in over $2 million.
READ MORE: Bust a Move draws hundreds in the name of breast health
“Breast cancer is a disease that can strike men, as well as women,” said Dr. John Mackey, director of clinical trials at the Cross. “I’ve seen women as young as 23 come into my clinic and I’ve treated women who’ve been in their 90s.”
Mackey said the Cross Cancer Institute has over 100 clinical trials going at any one time. “And in breast cancer and ovarian cancer, women’s cancers, we have over 20 studies open, accruing patients right now. These trials are testing the newest and most promising ideas that come from anywhere around the world,” he added.
READ MORE: How you can support Global Edmonton’s Bust A Move for breast health team
One of the key messages shared at Saturday’s event: be in tune with your body.
“Of course we should look after ourselves with a healthy diet, avoid smoking. But if you do get cancer, we know that being in physical shape can help you get through the treatment, and it improves your long-term outcome.”
Words breast cancer patient Kimberley Boulton lives by. “Make sure to stay on top of your self-exams, your regular checkups,” she said.
“Just because you’re young and healthy, doesn’t mean it can’t happen to you. I have no family history of breast cancer. I’m in my early 30s. I’m a personal trainer, marathon runner. It can happen to anybody.”
Global Edmonton’s Global Gazongas took part in the event again this year.
WATCH: Global Edmonton wardrobe sale raises more than $9K for breast cancer research
BELOW: Tweets and Instragram posts from the 2016 Bust a Move.