There are plenty of reasons Shelley Irwin takes part in the CIBC Run for the Cure.
With the mortality rate for those with breast cancer having dropped 44 per cent since its peak in the mid-1980s, and the survival rate being 20 per cent higher than it was that same decade, she knows her efforts are making a difference.
She also knows first-hand what it’s like to suffer from the disease.
Irwin had a mastectomy in 2006 after a second lump was found.
“It was an awful year. It was very stressful,” she said.
She has been taking part in the annual run for 18 years. About seven years ago, she decided to join the committee. Now she is the director for the combined Barrie and Orillia run.
“I got involved just to give back to the community,” Irwin said.
She’s not alone. Nearly 1,000 people took part in last year’s run.
“It’s an emotional day because of what it represents to me,” Irwin said, noting she has a friend who is struggling with breast cancer right now.
It’s an emotional event for many who participate as they watch people sign the “wall of hope” with messages such as, “I’m doing this for you, Grandma,” and, “Rest in peace.”
Then there’s the survivors’ parade, which saw about 100 cancer survivors in the spotlight last year.
“It’s quite powerful,” Irwin said.
This year’s Run for the Cure will take place Sept. 30 at Heritage Park in Barrie. Those who want to participate can pre-register here or show up on the day of the run. On-site registration will begin at 8 a.m., with the run starting at 10 a.m. The registration fee is $45, but that will be waived for participants who raise at least $150 in pledges.
Everyone has a reason for taking part in the run, Irwin said.
“It can hit anybody, so I do it for my friends and family. I do it for all women,” she said. “I do it to show there is life after breast cancer.”
