MBC NEWS FILE PHOTO
Hot off the heels of a successful Walk for Her fundraiser supporting cancer treatment in Pembroke, a sea of pink made its way through the streets of Renfrew as the community teamed up with Renfrew Victoria Hospital to support women’s health.
After several years running as a virtual event, the Renfrew Victoria Hospital Foundation’s annual “Put Your Breast Foot Forward” Walk/Run brought members of the community together for an in-person trek through town to raise $11,000 in support of the RVH Mammography Department.
Foundation Executive Director Patti Dillabough says the hospital has seen a notable increase in the need for breast health screenings, conducting 2,500 mammograms since the start of the year.
Mammogram screenings have become more readily available in recent years following the provincial government’s 2024 decision to lower the starting age for routine breast cancer screening to 40, and Dillabough points out that she herself is proof of how important setting up an appointment is.
Among the residents taking part in the walk were Renfrew’s Jr. A Wolves and Jr. B Timberwolves, who led the way from the hospital’s healing garden and into town.
Wolves head coach Devin Campbell says the day couldn’t have been better for the team to get out and support the community, especially when cancer has touched many of their lives.
RVH thanked everyone who helped support their fundraising goal, improving access to breast health care in the community.
(written by Kasey Egan)
