Thousands of participants in 16th edition of CIBC Run for the Cure in Quebec

Tens of thousands of walkers and runners turn out for 16th CIBC Run for the Cure, raising $2.2 million for breast cancer research

MONTREAL, Sept. 30, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - The Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation (QBCF) and the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) are proud to announce that $2.2 million were raised during the 16^th Quebec edition of the CIBC Run for the Cure, which took place this morning simultaneously in Montreal, Quebec City and Sherbrooke. In October, the QBCF is confident it will continue receiving donations and thereby surpass this year's financial goal. In total, thousands of people walked or ran in this event, which every year welcomes a growing number of participants sporting the pink ribbon.

"In 16 years, Run for the Cure has come a long way," said Mitsou Gélinas, spokesperson for the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation. "The number of participants is very impressive each year, which shows that people's attachment to the cause continues to grow! Whether they're affected directly or indirectly, everyone who came together today in Montreal, Quebec City and Sherbrooke has one thing in common, the desire to make a difference in the lives of thousands of Quebec women. And it is this desire that fuels hope. It's deeply moving!"

The money raised by The Run enables the QBCF to fund research, as well many initiatives across the province every year. Important donations were made this year, including a major $5.2 million investment in the Quebec City region announced at the end of August.

"In the 18 years since it was created, the Foundation has been able to invest more than $23 million in research and support programs in Quebec," said Francine Cléroux, president and executive director of the QBCF. "In doing so, we participate in developing treatments and improving screening, thereby contributing to reducing the mortality rate associated with breast cancer every year.  Although the mortality rate is at its lowest point since 1986, breast cancer unfortunately continues to be the biggest killer of women aged 30 to 39. Seeing the public's support to the cause, we are hopeful that one day, this disease will no longer exist - that it will no longer be a source of worry for women, once and for all."

The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation's CIBC Run for the Cure, the largest national fundraising effort organized by volunteers, kicks off Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Numerous awareness and fundraising activities will take place in October across the province to raise more money for Quebec women.

Photo available upon request.

About the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation

A non-profit organization, the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation has a mission to fund research into breast cancer, promote breast health through education and awareness-raising, and facilitate support for people affected by breast cancer. Since it was created in 1994, the Foundation has raised more than $20 million to enable Quebec's medical community to fund research projects and support programs. For more information, visit www.rubanrose.org

Text PINK to 41010 to make a $5 donation to the Foundation.

SOURCE: Fondation du cancer du sein du Québec

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Information:
Charles Durivage
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Caroline Couillard
Morin Relations Publiques
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