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Oct. 17 - Oct. 22, 2004 |
Walking for Leukemia
Gift of Life's goal supports research at Princess Margaret
By Francesco Veronesi
Originally Published: 2004-09-19
A march for keeping hope alive: on September 26 the third annual Walk for Leukemia will take place. The five kilometre march will start from the Kortright Centre in Woodbridge. The event, organized by Gift of Life in collaboration with the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation, has the goal of raising awareness about the fight against leukemia. At the same time, the organizers will raise funds that will go to support the research on this terrible disease carried out at the Princess Margaret Hospital.
In the two previous editions, great support enabled the organizers to raise about $220,000. These funds were used for research and development: research on possible genetic therapies, development of cellular and molecular biology, diagnostic methods, improvements in the efficacy and reduction in rejection rates and toxicity in bone marrow transplants, the development of new drugs capable of alleviating the devastation wrought by leukemia and the possibility of a cure.
The objective of this event, however, goes beyond simple fundraising. A fundamental goal of the march, repeatedly underscored by the organizers, is raising awareness. "We are doing this not just for leukemia research," said Elena Rotilio of Gift of Life, "but also to show those who suffer from this terrible disease that a lot of people - family, friends, doctors, nurses, even total strangers - do everything they can to support them in their difficult battle."
In 2002 and 2003 over 2,300 people marched. In addition to the common folk, 116 businesses, companies and other sponsors contributed funds, products, food, and enthusiasm.
Following this year's march, prizes and gifts (including some air tickets to Italy) will be drawn among the participants. There will also be a barbecue and games and activities for children.
The organizers invite the community to take part in this event. In past editions the march included people from Toronto, Mississauga, Thornhill, Richmond Hill, Brampton, Vaughan, and Newmarket.
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