Canada's largest breast cancer fundraiser returns October 4, rallying communities nationwide to help save and improve lives

Now in its 35th year, every dollar raised for the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure fuels decades of commitment to fund breast cancer research, advocacy and support services across Canada.

TORONTO, Sept. 1, 2026 /CNW/ -- The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) invites individuals, families and communities across Canada to sign up and take action for those affected by breast cancer at the 35th annual Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure on Sunday, October 4, 2026.

The CIBC Run for the Cure brings together tens of thousands of participants in over 50 communities nationwide. While the event takes place on just one day, its impact is enduring – funding world-leading breast cancer research, clinical trials and support programs that ensure access to trusted information, compassionate care and connection when people need it most.

"The Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure begins with people," says Laurie Benner, Vice President, Signature Programs, Canadian Cancer Society. "People who show up for loved ones, for their communities and for the breast cancer cause. We've seen how collective action can drive meaningful progress. Every step taken and every dollar raised brings new hope to people facing breast cancer today and helps shape a brighter future for generations to come."

Progress in action
Funds raised through the Run support the Canadian Cancer Society's work to save and improve the lives of people facing breast cancer by investing in transformative research. Today, the 5-year breast cancer survival rate has reached 90 per cent for women, and the overall breast cancer death rate has been nearly cut in half since the early 1990s when the first Run took place. Run-funded research is currently driving modern breakthroughs in AI, genomic testing, 3D bioprinting and targeted therapies -- allowing for more precise, personalized care and better outcomes.

Progress also depends on ensuring people can access and benefit from early detection. Breast cancer screening helps find cancer earlier, often before symptoms appear, when it can be easier to treat and outcomes are more likely to improve. Through ongoing advocacy, CCS is urging provinces and territories to lower the start age for breast screening programs to 40 for individuals at average risk of developing breast cancer. CCS is also working to increase public awareness and ensure programs are inclusive, accessible, well-resourced and timely, so more people can get the care they need as early as possible.

Three decades of impact
This year also marks CIBC's 30th year as title partner of the Run, a milestone that reflects three decades of employee, client and community support for the breast cancer cause. Since 1997, Team CIBC has raised more than $67.6 million through participating in and fundraising for the event.

"Entering our 30th year as title partner, Team CIBC remains deeply committed to standing alongside the Canadian Cancer Society and the thousands of Canadians who donate, fundraise, and participate each fall," says Eve Jedrzejewska, Executive Vice President, Business Enablement and Governance, CIBC. "Our team members, clients and communities have shown that when we come together, we can drive meaningful change. We're incredibly proud to celebrate a legacy built on generosity and a shared commitment to improving the lives of people affected by breast cancer."

"Together, CIBC and CCS continue to demonstrate what is possible when purpose and partnership reinforce one another, creating lasting change and strengthening support for people affected by breast cancer across Canada," added Benner.

Join the Run
Despite meaningful progress in survival, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Canadian women, with 1 in 8 expected to be diagnosed in their lifetime. In 2026 alone, an estimated 32,400 women and 300 men in Canada will face a breast cancer diagnosis and 5,460 people will die from the disease.

Whether participants run or walk a 5-kilometre or 1-kilometre route, join as part of a team, volunteer or donate, every person who takes part helps power the innovative science, national support system and advocacy that people facing breast cancer rely on today and for years to come.

"When you're facing a breast cancer diagnosis, knowing there is an entire community standing behind you changes everything," says Wendy Garner, a breast cancer survivor who will be participating in this year's Run in Waterloo, Ontario. "We've come a long way in how breast cancer is diagnosed and treated, and that's because of decades of research supported by events like the Run. Participating in the Run isn't just about showing up for one day; it's about helping fund the progress and support that give people like me hope for tomorrow."

The Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure is open to everyone. People are encouraged to gather their family, friends and coworkers to register a team or participate as an individual.

To register, donate, or find a local Run site near you, visit cibcrunforthecure.com.

About the Canadian Cancer Society
The Canadian Cancer Society works tirelessly to save lives, improve lives and drive collective action against cancer. Together with patients, volunteers, donors and communities across the country, we raise funds to invest in transformative cancer research, we provide a caring support system for everyone affected by cancer and we advocate to governments to create a healthier future for all. It takes a society to take on cancer – and the Canadian Cancer Society is leading the way. Help us make a difference. Call 1-888-939-3333 or visit cancer.ca today.

About CIBC
CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with 15 million personal banking, business, public sector and institutional clients. Through corporate donations, community partnerships and the genuinely caring culture of Team CIBC, we are committed to creating a world where everyone can realize their ambitions. Learn more about our community impact. Ongoing news releases and more information about CIBC can be found at www.cibc.com/en/about-cibc/media-centre.html.

SOURCE Canadian Cancer Society (National Office)

For further information or to schedule an interview, please contact: Adriana Chiva, Consultant, [email protected], 289-707-7155