CIBC Run For The Cure set for Sunday

Oct 4, 2013 | News

Courtesy photo from Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

Women take part in the 2o12 Run for the Cure. (Courtesy photo from Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation)

By Julia Grabowska

Walking for sixty minutes a day could save the lives of some Canadian women.

According to a study by the American Cancer Society, just one hour of walking a day could lower the risk of breast cancer in women by 14 per cent.

Previous studies stated that overall physical activity reduces the breast cancer risk by 25 per cent, but the simple movement of walking can help a whole lot more.

The new study comes two days before The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure will hit the streets of downtown Toronto,  where individuals will be walking and running towards the cure.

According to Canadian Cancer Statistics, on average, 62 Canadian women are diagnosed with breast cancer every single day.

The run raises awareness, as well as money, for breast cancer research.

Christy Lawson, a cancer survivor, is running for the fifth year in a row.

“The first year I ran with my girlfriends, and it ultimately started as a goal to get back into shape, but it was such a bigger experience than I had anticipated,” said Lawson.

Lawson was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, but decided she would still take part in the run. Cancer-free for several months now, Lawson said she feels like she’s not the only one who went through a struggle with the disease.

“Last year, the run hit very close to home with overriding emotions, it makes you feel like you’re not alone and it’s very inspirational,” she said.

“There has been tremendous progress in breast cancer research, but still 1 in 9 women will get it, that is still 1 too many. You don’t know when it’s going to happen, or who it’s going to happen to. Any little bit helps,” Lawson added.

Caroline Vanhasselt, director of external communications and media for CIBC, said the bank has been a sponsor since 1997.

“Our involvement actually started more than 20 years ago when a handful of employees were very passionate about the run and rallied our company around the cause,” said Vanhasselt. “The run has become such an important fabric of our company, and we think it’s important to participate since its something that impacts so many Canadians.”

The run will take place on Sunday at 10 a.m., starting at University of Toronto’s St. George campus.