Enthusiasm high at CIBC Run for the Cure

Turnout may have been slightly lower than previous years, but enthusiasm was not lacking at this year’s CIBC Run for the Cure in Trenton.

“We have a smaller group than we typically see, but energy-wise they’re the most energetic we’ve had. Everyone that’s here is really here,” said Thorburn resident Melissa Castonguay, run director.

Castonguay was the person who launched the CIBC Run for the Cure when it started in Pictou County in 2013 and she’s been involved since. Prior to that she would take part in the event in Halifax.

She said she takes part for her great-aunt and great-grandmother who both had cancer.

“There is notable increase in the survivability of breast cancer and in part, that has a lot to do with the funds being raised by what was the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and now is merged with the Canadian Cancer Society,” she said. “It also gives the participants the opportunity to celebrate their loved ones who are on a breast cancer journey.”

Lesley Graham, a participant at this year’s event, said she had an aunt who passed away with cancer. Her mother-in-law is also a breast cancer survivor.

She said she’s taken part since it started in Pictou County.

“People need to know they are supported,” Graham said.

Teri Conrad also took part in this year’s event and believes it’s important to recognize it in order to address the problem.

“The only way to beat it is to put it out there,” she said.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Runners take off at the start of this year’s CIBC Run for the Cure which was held in Trenton Park on Sunday. More than 100 people took part this year.