Barrie's CIBC Run for the Cure run raises $225K

A family at the 'Run for the Cure' event in Barrie, Ont., on Sun., Oct. 6, 2024 (CTV News/Mike Lang)

The first Sunday of October was also the first Sunday of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which meant hundreds wore pink and attended the two CIBC 'Run for the Cure' events in the region.

The Barrie event saw more than 800 participants and raised more than $225,000 to support the Canadian Cancer Society.

"It was amazing," said Katie Goodfellow, a CIBC branch manager and committee member for the run. "So nice to see everyone coming together for a common cause."

Sandra Howcroft has been involved with the Barrie run for 23 years after surviving breast cancer in the early 2000s.

"I was one of the very lucky ones because they caught it quickly," recalled Howcroft before offering advice for those who are at risk for breast cancer. "Get checked early, go for those mammograms. If you have a history of breast cancer, please don't delay. Talk to your doctor, get in and get it done."

The funds raised will support the Canadian Cancer Society's research initiatives and programs that help breast cancer patients get treatment, peer support, headwear and breast prostheses.

Collingwood's 'Run for the Cure' raised more than $63,000 as of Sunday afternoon. Donations will be accepted until the end of October through support.cancer.ca.