ESTEVAN — Estevan residents gathered on Sunday for the 10th annual local Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History, demonstrating unwavering support for those affected by the genetic disorder.
Despite a weather delay, the sun shone brightly as more than 50 participants, sponsors and volunteers came together at Woodlawn Regional Park to raise funds and awareness for cystic fibrosis (CF).
Kasey McIntyre, the local co-ordinator for the walk and a long-time advocate, kicked off the event with heartfelt gratitude.
"I could not be here today without the people that support me every day, our family and friends," McIntyre said. "It means so much, the unexpected things of people coming to help. Our community has been so wonderful for us all this year."
Celebrating its 10th anniversary locally, the event was part of a national initiative with 40 walks happening across Canada on the same day. The national walk's history counts 20 years, and Estevan's efforts are part of a broader mission that has seen Canadians raise over $41 million for CF research over the past two decades.
Key sponsors played a significant role in the event's success. Kin Canada, celebrating 60 years of partnership with Cystic Fibrosis Canada, was highlighted for its extraordinary commitment.
"Through their extraordinary commitment, Kin has raised over $50 million for CF research and patient care in that six decades of partnership," McIntyre acknowledged.
Estevan Kinette Club president Raelene Fieber greeted participants and said every Kin group in Canada has to do fundraisers for CF every year. Estevan Kinettes also helped organize the local event in the past and partake in it every year.
CARSTAR Collision and Glass Services, another national sponsor, also made their presence felt.
"CARSTAR began fundraising for CF over 25 years ago when the franchise partner's granddaughter received a cystic fibrosis diagnosis. Cystic fibrosis is their charity of choice and they have raised $5 million for CF," said McIntyre. "Every year their franchise network joins the fundraising for CF ... and CARSTAR Estevan has been part of it."
She noted that the business sponsored swag bags for the participants this year and helped with setting up the event, while employees partook in the walk.
Another national sponsor recognized was Vertex Pharmaceuticals, a biotech company that aims to discover and develop commercial innovative medicines so that people with serious diseases like cystic fibrosis can live better lives.
"They're changing the lives of people with CF like my son Liam. Without him having the breakthroughs that he's received, there could be a different life ahead of us than what we've been given. Trikafta, which this company has created, changed the lives of 90 per cent of the people that have cystic fibrosis," McIntyre said.
"We need to keep going for the 10 per cent that don't have these breakthroughs. And then when those get it, we're going to keep going so there is no CF."
Local businesses contributed significantly to the event as well. The community's generosity was so overwhelming that organizers decided to hold an online silent auction to accommodate the numerous donations.
The emotional tone of the event was underscored by a moment of silence for those lost to this and other diseases.
"Think of those people because, without that loss, we wouldn't be doing what we're doing today either," McIntyre said.
Estevan's political representatives expressed their support through statements.
"The commitment and passion to organizing such an event is evident in how this event has grown every year," said Maureen Daoust, reading a message from Souris-Moose Mountain MP Robert Kitchen.
Estevan MLA Lori Carr also forwarded her greetings.
Mayor Roy Ludwig praised the dedication of the volunteers and participants.
"It's great to see there are some new drugs on the horizon that are helpful. But having said that, the fight has to continue until we find a cure," Ludwig stated.
RM of Estevan Coun. Ramona Dukart also addressed the guests.
"Every step you take is a step forward to making a difference in the lives of people with CF. With your hard work and dedication, raising money for CF is just not a goal, but a journey that showcases the strength and your spirit," Dukart said.
Before setting off on the walk through the park trails, participants received route instructions and safety reminders. Volunteers, including several young community members, were stationed along the path to provide assistance and water.
"We are a strong, supportive community," McIntyre emphasized. "By being here and listening to us today, by walking with us today, by donating something today, that's community coming together."
The Estevan Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History once again highlighted the power of collective effort and the community's commitment to finding a cure for CF, McIntyre commented on what was an emotional day.
"I think this is going to be our best year," McIntyre said, noting they had a few new participants.
The local goal was bumped up to $15,500 from $10,000 before, and McIntyre said they hope to meet the goal.
