The annual Beau’s 5K for Ovarian Cancer run returned for another edition on Saturday, June 21 in Vankleek Hill.
According to Maddy Graves of Ovarian Cancer Canada, this year’s run raised more than $50,000.
The run is inspired by Vankleek Hill’s Ashley Courtois (Cowan), whose friends and family started the event when Ashley was diagnosed with the disease in 2015. Ashley lost her battle with cancer in 2018, but the run has continued.
In advance of Saturday’s run, 300 participants had registered in advance. On Saturday, more than 350 people participated.
Graves said there is no fundraiser like the Beau’s 5K anywhere else in Canada.
“This is just a different vibe and atmosphere,” she said.
Graves said 3,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year in Canada. Half of those diagnosed will not live for another five years.
“It’s the deadliest women’s cancer,” Graves said.
There is no screening test for ovarian cancer. Graves said most women are at stage three or four when diagnosed. Funds raised from events like the Beau’s 5K are for research to develop a screening test.
