The 25th Annual Gutsy Walk – a fundraiser for Crohn’s and Colitis Canada – is taking place this Sunday (Aug. 23), and while it will look a little different than previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, its focus remains unchanged: to help find cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and improve the lives of those affected by the diseases.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s event is happening virtually, and organizers with the volunteer-driven charity are asking participants to pace for the cause at their favourite park or neighbourhood trail in Langley, Surrey and Delta.
The event “has been a scramble to plan, and it’s unfortunate we can’t see our community to celebrate our 25th anniversary,” a news release issued this week states.
READ MORE: ‘Gutsy Walk’ in Surrey raises more than $60K
The Gutsy Walk, the release continues, is Crohn’s and Colitis Canada’s largest research fundraiser, and the country’s largest community event supporting the 270,000 Canadians – including 3,700 in the Fraser Valley West area – who live with these chronic diseases. It launched in 1996.
Last year’s local walk raised $50,635.26, and it’s hoped proceeds from this year’s event will reach $52,000.
Those interested are encouraged to “walk anywhere, anyhow,” the release states. Speeches, warmups and other events will be hosted throughout the day on Facebook and Instagram (@getgutsyfraservalleywest).
The “walk” is set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information or to register, visit gutsywalk.ca
tholmes@peacearchnews.com
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