16th Annual Do It For Dad Run/Walk to Fight Prostate Cancer to Take Place at Coldstream Ranch

Teamwork and dedication to the cause are major factors in the ongoing success of the VJH Foundation’s Do it For Dad event held each Father’s Day at Coldstream Ranch. Now in its 16th year, the annual run & walk to support local men with prostate cancer has raised $322,222 since its inception.More than 350 people come out faithfully each year to honour the fathers and men in their lives by raising funds to fight prostate cancer right here in our community.Like the origin of Father’s Day, ‘Do It For Dad’ was established as a tribute to fathers. The event was founded in 1999 by then-MLA, Dr. April Sanders, who wanted to raise community awareness of prostate cancer and the need for early diagnosis and treatment.  Dr. Sanders remains committed and involved with the planning of ‘Do It For Dad’ and is the Honorary Chair of this year’s event.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men, (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers) and is the third leading cause of death from cancer in men in Canada. About 1 in 7 Canadian men is expected to develop prostate cancer during his lifetime and 1 in 28 will die from it.This year’s funds will provide free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests for North Okanagan men, as well as help purchase equipment for the treatment of prostate cancer at Vernon Jubilee Hospital.

The event is community-oriented, featuring children’s activities sponsored by the Interior Savings promotional team, Face Painting by Christine Turpin, the Kalamalka Highlanders Pipe Band, Kalamalka Caring Klowns and a light lunch donated by SUBWAY. There is also a competitive spirit involved, with prizes awarded to the top three men’s and women’s  finishers, as well as the top team and individual fundraisers for the event.Last year’s event saw the winners in the two fundraising categories bring in nearly a quarter of the total amount of the $33,372 that was raised. Long-time supporter and top individual fundraiser Marnie MacKenzie raised $3,065, while top team fundraisers, Doreen’s T-Bags raised $5,100 in memory of their friend and the 2013 individual top fundraiser Doreen Hourie, who passed away in February 2014.Registration for the 16th Annual Do It For Dad Run & Walk presented by Interior Savings takes place Father’s Day, June 21st, at Coldstream Ranch at 8:30 am with the Walk/Run starting at 9:30 am. Registration fees are $10 for youth 15 years and younger and $20 for adults 16 years and older.Raise $50 in pledges to waive one registration fee. Awards will be given to the team and individual that raises the most money. Local businesses have also generously donated prizes for our draws for dads, race participants and volunteers.Click here for pledge forms or to donate.