A big thank you
Jen Gunton (third from left) is flanked by Terry Fox Run organizer Cindy Saucier, Russell Township Mayor Pierre Leroux (left) and Councillor Jamie Laurin (right). Gunton thanked participants before the Run and related her story of how cancer research helped her recovery. Vetter photo
Candice Vetter
Villager Staff
RUSSELL – Without counting the totals from area schools or other pledged funds which are still coming in, the Embrun-Russell Terry Fox Run Site #82 has so far raised $13,862, which includes $321 raised by Experience Smoothie Bar in Embrun.
The run took place on the fitness trail between Russell and Embrun, and has been an annual tradition led by Cindy Saucier and Donna Lafrance for many years.
As usual there were a few glitches, with some last-minute cancellations, but also as usual the event was a huge success, with numerous teams made up of families or friends. This year’s Russell start was dedicated to Jen Gunton, an Embrun resident who teaches at Mother Teresa Catholic School in Russell, who is a cancer survivor. The Embrun start was dedicated to Jitka Rezacova, who just finished her last cancer treatment, but still walked the entire route.
First woman to finish, Michelle Leduc, and first man, Alexander Dyer, received prizes from Curves and Strength Craze gyms, respectively.
Area schools will be holding their own Terry Fox Runs shortly, and their totals will be added to the total for Site #82, so the tally may reach $15,000.
The total raised over many years by the Embrun-Russell Run is $286,416.46, beating out many larger communities.
Saucier said she and Lafrance appreciated all the support from the various sponsors and donors, who are too numerous to list here.
