Hundreds of people turned out for the 23rd annual Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation Fund Run on June 7, raising thousands for needed hospital equipment, supplies, and programs.
More than 200 runners – and walkers – came out to Fairview Elementary School, despite the rain, in addition to 42 volunteers.
So far, more than $56,000 has been raised, surpassing the initial $50,000 goal.
Janine Davies, executive director of the Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation, noted that this is the highest total the event has ever achieved.
“This year’s event was a tremendous success. The energy and community support were both incredibly strong, and it was inspiring to see so many participants, volunteers, sponsors, and donors come together in support of a shared cause,” she said, noting that despite the rainy morning, everyone had sunny dispositions.
There was both a five kilometre run/walk and a 10 kilometre run.
Guest speakers at the event included Davies; Heidi Einhorn, board chair of the hospital foundation; and Dr. Laura Kelly, the hospital’s site medical director.
Board director Ron Antalek took the participants through the warm up.
Instead of awarding the fastest runners this year, Davies said they celebrated the incredible fundraising efforts that make the event truly meaningful.
An award was presented to the top youth/individual fundraiser, who was Ivo James, who at just six months old, raised $4,190.11, and whose parents had to take him through the five kilometre race.
The top team fundraiser was Team Van Pelt who raised $6,209.61.
Davies noted the Fund Run plays a key role in raising both funds and awareness for the hospital, directly supporting enhancements to patient care, equipment, and services that benefit this community.
“It also strengthens the connection between the hospital foundation and the people it serves. Ryan, Michelle, and the entire team at Marv Jones Honda has been a leader in supporting this event, the foundation and working with us to advance wellness in our community,” she said.
The Fund Run is one of several fundraising revenue streams that contribute to the Foundation’s annual fundraising efforts of more than $2 million.
Funds raised will be directed toward wellness initiatives both within Ridge Meadows Hospital and throughout the greater community.
“This approach allows participants and donors to see a direct connection between their efforts and investments in prevention, wellness, mental health, and community-based healthcare programs that improve quality of life across our region,” she added.
Over the past 22 years, more than $650,000 has been raised by this event for the hospital foundation.
To donate go to: https://rmhfoundation.com/.