Toronto (Sept. 8, 2007) - Early this morning, 5,521 Weekend to End Breast Cancer walkers, the largest number in the event's five year history, set off on Day Two of their 60-km walk. Yesterday, Princess Margaret Hospital announced that these women and men raised $17,300,000 in Toronto's 5th annual The Weekend to End Breast Cancer® event, a 60-kilometre walk to raise funds for breast cancer research and care in Toronto. The 6th annual Weekend to End Breast Cancer benefiting Princess Margaret Hospital is already planned for Sept. 5-7, 2008.
Walkers began their journey early yesterday morning after an emotional Opening Ceremony at the Direct Energy Centre. Hours later, they arrived at a "Tent City" erected at Downsview Park, where they were greeted by hot showers, meals and entertainment. Perhaps a little weary from their 30-kilometre trek the day before, participants had no problem finding the drive to get up early this morning and continue on the last 30-kilometres to the finish line.
Hundreds of Volunteers and Crew Members are on hand to provide support over the course of the two-day event including meals, water and snack stops, gear transport, portable restrooms, safety on the streets, and comprehensive medical services.
"Everyone involved in the Weekend displays incredible courage! In our fifth year of this event, the enthusiasm of the Walkers, Volunteers, Donors and Supporters has only increased and we are very grateful for their ongoing commitment," said Paul Alofs, President & CEO of The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation. "Months of planning go into this event and there is no reward quite like being able to walk alongside the participants and know that together, we are having an undeniable impact in the fight against this disease."
"This event is for people wanting to do something big in the fight against breast cancer," said Dr. Tak Mak, Director of The Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research. "Our research programs got a real boost as a result of the Walkers' passion and commitment. It's inspiring and has made The Weekend to End Breast Cancer in Toronto the most successful breast cancer fundraiser in Canada!"
For more information about the event, or to register as a participant for next year, please 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.
