Toronto (Sept. 7, 2007) - Today, Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) announced that 5,521 walkers raised $17,300,000 in its annual The Weekend to End Breast Cancer event. This multi-day event is the largest single-event breast cancer fundraiser in Canada and this year, boasts a record number of walkers for its five year history. Spurred on by this continued growth in participation and support, the 6th annual The Weekend to End Breast Cancer in Toronto is already planned for September 5-7, 2008.
After a motivational Opening Ceremony at the Direct Energy Centre, participants embarked on the first 30-kilometres of their walk throughout the city. Tonight, they camp at Downsview Park as they rest up for the final 30-kilometres on Sunday. Their weekend journey ends tomorrow with an inspiring Closing Ceremony at the Direct Energy Centre located on the CNE Grounds at 4:30pm. Family, friends, and supporters are invited to greet and cheer on the Walkers as they make their way to the finish.
"The 5,521 women and men walking this weekend are truly courageous in making their mark in the fight against breast cancer. We're very grateful to all the Walkers, Crew, Volunteers, Donors, and the entire community for their amazing support," said Paul Alofs, President & CEO of The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation. "Together we are having a real impact on critical research and care programs that will save lives, and we're not finished yet. We hope everyone will help us make next year's event just as successful by registering now for the 2008 The Weekend to End Breast Cancer."
"Over the last four years, all participants, donors and supporters of The Weekend to End Breast Cancer event have helped redefine breast cancer research, patient care and survivor support at Princess Margaret Hospital through the generous funds they have raised. The larger community of Ontario has been critical to supporting breast cancer research at The Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research, enhanced patient care at PMH and the creation of a unique Survivorship program," said Dr. Mary Gospodarowicz, Medical Director of the PMH Cancer program.
Funds from The Weekend to End Breast Cancer have supported a tremendous range of initiatives including: the first Weekend to End Breast Cancer Chair in Breast Cancer Research, held by Dr. Tak Mak at The Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research; the establishment of the first comprehensive Survivorship Program in Canada, led by Dr. Pam Catton; the ongoing enhancement of clinical support led by Dr. David McCready, Head of the Breast Site; the redevelopment of the M. Lau Breast Centre, a comprehensive breast imaging program; funding for the purchase of a Breast MRI machine; the advancement of the Pathology Tumour Bank; research in to breast cancer prevention and, the rapid diagnosis pilot project.
For more information about the event, or to register as a participant for next year, contact 416 815 9255, or sign up online at www.endcancer.ca. Visit Opening Ceremonies, Camp or Closing Ceremonies and register on-site for 2008!
About The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation
The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation at University Health Network raises funds for research, education and the enhancement of patient care at Princess Margaret Hospital and its research arm, the Ontario Cancer Institute. www.thepmcf.ca
About Princess Margaret Hospital
Princess Margaret Hospital and its research arm, Ontario Cancer Institute, have achieved an international reputation as one of the top 5 comprehensive cancer research hospitals in the world. Princess Margaret Hospital is a member of University Health Network, which also includes Toronto General Hospital and Toronto Western Hospital. All three are research hospitals affiliated with the University of Toronto.
