When Dan Hubbard laces up for the Father’s Day Walk/Run for the Vancouver Island Prostate Centre, he’ll do so knowing his daughters will be right there beside him – virtually!
Hubbard’s daughters in Brandon, Man. and Swift Current, Sask. – along with a brand new grandchild participating for the first time – will make this year’s Raymond James Father’s Day Walk/Run for Prostate Care a true family affair, even though they’ll be participating from cities many kilometres away.
“A little over 13 years ago, I had surgery and the Prostate Centre was key in helping provide information and support,” says Hubbard, who since then has shown his appreciation as a board member, volunteer and fundraiser.
Celebrating 20 years of supporting Island families
This year’s Walk/Run takes on even greater importance as the Vancouver Island Prostate Centre marks its 20th year of supporting men and their families through prostate cancer diagnoses.
Since the Centre opened more than 20 years ago, its team has helped more than 1,000 men each year. In fact, It’s estimated that in 2020, some 3,100 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer in BC, including more than 800 men on Vancouver Island.
Today, one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer; for those with a family history, that risk can increase by 50 per cent.
“Our Father’s Day event is the biggest fundraiser that we do each year,” says Prostate Centre executive director Leanne Kopp, thanking Raymond James for stepping up to match donations up to $15,000.
While COVID health protocols have created the need for a virtual event this year, that also opens up opportunities for those like the Hubbards, Kopp notes. Loved ones can support the Island Prostate Centre from wherever they are, raising both funds and awareness for the vital programs and services.
“We never want anyone to walk alone in their journey with prostate cancer,” Kopp notes.
Sign up for the Father’s Day Walk/Run today:
- Visit the online event platform to register – you’ll even receive a tax receipt for the $25 registration fee!
- Start training – each month organizers will release a new challenge to get you moving.
- Find tips and ideas to help you raise funds – don’t forget to post fundraising photos and stories to social media.
- Join your fellow participants for the virtual kick-off, then walk, run or cycle any route you like, and feel good knowing you’re supporting vital men’s health services right here in your community.
And for those who prefer to fundraise on two wheels, the annual Ride to Live also returns Sunday, Sept. 12.
Operating without government funding, the Island Prostate Centre relies on the power of private donors who support their much-needed programs and services through monthly, annual or one-time giving, Kopp notes.
That’s become even more challenging with the pandemic sending in-person fundraising events – their greatest revenue source – virtual. “If you can give, please do.”
Learn more at islandprostatecentre.com or call 250-388-0214.
