In what has become the largest single-day fundraiser for breast cancer research, people in Edmonton and 60 other communities across the country laced up their sneakers Sunday for the 19th annual Run for the Cure.
Locally, an estimated 10,000 people headed down to Churchill Square to pound the pavement for the cause.
All proceeds raised during the event will go to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and will be used for research, education programs and treatment.
According to organizers, people in the Capital Region raised a collective $1.4 million, 95 per cent of which will stay in the area.
They say given the statistics, every dollar counts.
"One in nine women will be diagnosed and 100 people will die each week in Canada… 180 men will also be diagnosed with breast cancer each year," said Heather Perry.
Among those in involved in Edmonton's event was a group of 29 running for Krista Thompson, who was diagnosed with the disease in January.
"I'm cancer-free now and just waiting for re-construction," said the honouree, donning a pink sweater that lets other participants know she's a survivor.
Those on her team say seeing a close friend beat cancer makes the annual walk all the more poignant.
"When we did it last year, we were just all wearing white and this year it's different when we have one wearing pink," said Melissa Gushnowski.
With Files from Dez Melenka
