Participants of all ages and athletic abilities – including dogs and children – gathered at Varsity Stadium for the opening ceremony, led by Munira Premji, a three-time cancer survivor who is participating in the Journey for the 10th time.
"Nobody does cancer alone. My hope is that one day, through events like the Journey, we will conquer cancer in our lifetime," said Premji. "This event is the perfect forum to raise much needed awareness, but also the funds required to do the research that will enable new breakthroughs and better treatment options for patients."
On Sunday, participants, including patients, survivors, and supporters, walked or ran one, three or five km through downtown Toronto. All routes passed by Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, with pit stops and live entertainment along the way. Participants were greeted by "Hope" the dog, the new Journey mascot, and serenaded by live bands along the route.
"Cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada and the second leading cause of death around the world," said Dr. Miyo Yamashita, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. "Fortunately, thanks to the support of our event participants, there is hope at The Princess Margaret. Funds raised by Journey participants allow researchers to generate more breakthrough discoveries that will revolutionize cancer treatment and care for patients here in Canada and around the world."
When participants register for the Journey, they can choose to direct their fundraising dollars to one of more than 50 areas of cancer research. Princess Margaret Cancer Centre is one of the top 5 cancer research centres in the world. Funds raised through events like the Journey play an integral role in globally recognized research initiatives and world-leading clinical advancements.
ABOUT PRINCESS MARGARET CANCER FOUNDATION
The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation is Canada's largest and leading cancer charity, dedicated to raising funds for Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, one of the world's top five cancer research centres known for its game-changing scientific achievements and exceptional patient treatment and care. Through philanthropy, events, our world-leading home lottery program, and commercialization initiatives, we make possible the critical funding required to accelerate cancer research, education, and clinical care -- benefitting patients at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, throughout Canada and the world. www.thepmcf.ca
To secure images, or for more information about the event, please contact:
Kenzie Broddy
Director Communications, The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation
kenzie.broddy@thepmcf.ca
437.215.6961
Stacey Sheehan
Communications at The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation
stacey.sheehan@thepmcf.ca
437-220-5751
Marina Jimenez
Director Communications, The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
marina.jimenez@thepmcf.ca
416-918-7313