On Sunday, October 6th, my family, like many, will join the CIBC Run for the Cure, raising funds for the Canadian Cancer Society in the fight against breast cancer. But this is more than a run—it's a declaration of unity. A testament to resilience. A resounding statement of hope. 

I’ll run with a heart full of love for my wife, Natacha, who completed her chemotherapy two years ago. I’ll run for Natacha's younger sister, Brigitte, who just finished her own gruelling chemo journey last month. I’ll run for my younger sister, Tina, another courageous breast cancer survivor. I’ll run for Dawn Ferraz, a lifelong friend who beat breast cancer 16 years ago and brings hope and optimism to thousands as a dedicated advocate of survival. 

I'll run for those whose voices have been silenced forever. I’ll run for everyone, every person who has faced the terrifying words, "You have breast cancer”, and for the researchers tirelessly working to find better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

I'm running for a future where no one has to fear breast cancer.

The impact of breast cancer extends far beyond the person fighting it. It sends shockwaves through families, friends and entire communities. It changes lives in an instant, challenging us to find strength we never knew we had. During Natacha’s fight, I told her that you don’t know how strong you are until strength is your only option.

She fought. She cried. But she prevailed. 

Breast cancer doesn't care about age, background or circumstance. It's a shadow that looms over far too many Canadian families, leaving in its wake a trail of fear, pain and, sadly, far too much loss. 

But, even in these dark moments, we discover our greatest power—the unbreakable bonds of human solidarity and compassion, and the undeniable power of the human spirit.

The CIBC Run for the Cure is more than just a one-day event—it's a symbol of that collective resolve. It's a day when thousands come together, united by a common purpose: to support, to remember, to fight back. Every participant, every supporter, every person who comes together gives hope, sheds light, in what can often feel like a dark and uncertain journey.

Hand in hand, we'll shape a world where breast cancer's grip weakens: lives are extended, therapies evolve and no one faces this journey alone.

Thank you for your support, your compassion and your solidarity. 

Every one of these warriors has a powerful story to tell. A story of strength, of resilience, of hope.

Let's build a future where breast cancer doesn't dictate how these stories end.