Pink will be the colour in downtown Prince George on Sunday morning as the annual CIBC Run for the Cure takes to the streets.
A staple in northern B.C. since 2001, the run and walking event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars locally to support breast cancer research, education and awareness.
CIBC Spruceland branch manager Robin Watson has been involved in the local event since moving to Prince George in 2002. First as a fundraising co-ordinator for 15 branches in northern B.C. and then as a volunteer on the registration desk, Watson has seen the impact the event has had on breast cancer survivors and heard from them the importance of the work of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.
"It's all those stories that I hear," Watson said.
"On run day I usually have tears in my eyes half the day, you just meet some fabulous people and hear some awesome stories."
Among the stories that stick out in Watson's mind where two young elementary school-aged girls who showed up at the registration desk with a bag full of money.
"They had collected money from a sleepover and garage sale and by holding lemonade stands to help their mom," Watson said.
"It's those kind of stories [that are inspiring]."
Last year 455 people in Prince George participated in the run and raised more than $108,000. Since 2001 the Prince George run has brought in $1.35 million. All of the proceeds collected remain in the B.C. and Yukon region.
Watson has seen the event evolve over the years from its roots at the University of Northern B.C. to its current home downtown.
"I've seen it go from circling around the university down to the Civic Centre and a proper run route," she said.
"There's a lot less paperwork now, there's a lot more online fundraising now."
The number of participants has declined slightly in recent years and organizers are hoping more will take part this year. About 300 people have already signed up and many more are expected to add their names to the list this week.
Organizers will have tables at Pine Centre Mall on Thursday and Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. for pre-registration. Registration will open on Sunday morning at the Civic Centre at 8:30 a.m., with opening ceremonies set for 9:30 a.m. The run will officially begin at 10 a.m.
