Going the mile to end kids’ cancer
Making an impact; making a difference.
The relay to end kids’ cancer from Toronto to Blue Mountain takes place on Sept. 21, and John Walkinshaw, General Manager of Orangeville Honda, said that he and his staff are doing their part to raise money for this most important cause.
“We’re part of the Humberview Group of dealers. The owner of our corporation has made a commitment to this year’s Sears Canada run where the group makes a sizable donation,” he said. “We, as dealers, raise money as well. Last year, Orangeville Honda ended up being the third highest fundraiser in the Toronto run.”
Mr. Walkinshaw said that, as a dealership, they have a number of their own staff that participate. Many of them participate as runners, and almost all of their staff is doing some type of fundraising or helping the day of the event.
“Last year, our amount that was raised was just over $15,000, and this year we’re hoping for more. We really stretched last year to get to where we were and we could not have done it without the communities support.”
Mr. Walkinshaw said they’ve got a total of 15 runners at this point.
“So far, we’ve raised $4000. We’ve got a month to go; so we’ve got some serious work to do, but we’re at that mark right now.
Anyone who wants to make a donation towards the cause could phone into our
dealership to donate. There is a website where they can donate at as well.”
The Sears Canadian run is in support of ending kids’ cancer, and the funds are specifically for Sickkids Hospital in Toronto.
“Everybody knows someone who has been touched by cancer. Although this is specific to kids’ cancer, the interesting thing is what they’ve learned in the past about getting closer to a cure for cancer for kids is translatable to adult cancer,” said Mr. Walkinshaw. “Interestingly enough, it’s not necessarily the other way around. When they learn something about adult cancers, it doesn’t always translate backwards to kids. We just feel like this is a really important cause. It’s far-reaching. With Sickkids Hospital being the recipient and it’s relating to kids’ cancer – how can you say no.”
Those who wish to donate can visit Orangeville Honda Hwy 9 east of Orangeville, or you can visit http://searscanada.akaraisin.com/pledge/Team/Homeaspx?seid=6189&tid=56388&mid=10 to donate directly online.
Written by Jordan Nunziato
