Thursday, October 23, 2008

Run for the Cure a great success

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Run for the Cure a great success
The Journal Pioneer

Editor,
In this time of economic uncertainty, it is touching to see the outstanding support received on Oct. 5 at the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure.
On P.E.I., 2,000 people participated in Charlottetown to support families, friends, coworkers, neighbours and even themselves. Islanders raised more than $194,000 toward the Atlantic Canada total of more than $3.4 million.
We’re all counting our dollars carefully these days, and the same is true of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. With more than 2,000 volunteers generously giving their time all year long to co-ordinate runs in the region, we keep costs down so more money can be put toward the cause.
Our local, regional and national sponsors further contribute to the efficiency of our fundraising. In fact, CBCF’s fundraising cost is just 28 cents on the dollar – well within industry standards.
Of net money raised, 95 per cent stays here to support Atlantic Canada initiatives. The remaining five per cent supports research at the national level.
This year alone, CBCF Atlantic Region has awarded more than $1.4 million to Atlantic universities, institutions and communities. These funds support basic research, new digital mammography machines, survivor programs and much more.
In addition to this work, we are also focused on our vision: by 2010, 85 per cent of all eligible women in Atlantic Canada will be regularly screened for breast cancer. The World Health Organization states that even a 70 per cent screening rate will result in 35 per cent fewer deaths due to breast cancer.
Next spring the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation Tour for the Cure will hit the road to educate Atlantic Canadians about the importance of regular screening. Our distinctive pink bus will visit more than 80 cities, towns and communities across the region and encourage women to be screened for breast cancer.
We work hard to ensure your hard-earned and thoughtfully donated dollars move us closer to a future without breast cancer. Thank you for your support.
Nancy Margeson
CEO, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation Atlantic Region

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