The 19th Annual Run for Mom was a resounding success, raising $25,250 for the Chilliwack General Hospital maternity ward.
The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundatio and staff at CGH say they are grateful for the generosity of the community and their support. Event coordinator Brenda Vanderhorst says a public appeal in The Chilliwack Progress helped bring out participants and enabled the Foundation to raise the funds for the CGH maternity ward.
She adds, “365 registrants, 53 volunteers and a whole lot of community love was seen on May 13.”
This year’s run proceeds will be used to purchase fully reclining sleeper chairs for the birthing rooms at CGH. These recliners allow supporting partners to rest comfortably and better support mom throughout her hospital stay.
“The incredible outpouring of our community to support the hospital and, in particular the maternity unit, was absolutely heart-warming,” says Heather Mash, Program Manager at CGH Maternity. “The family and friends assisting a mom and baby during their hospital stay are vital in ensuring they have the rest and support needed in order to make the smooth transition from hospital to home, and having the ability to also rest comfortably is important. The replacement sleep chairs will be a wonderful addition to the unit.”
Event attendees were able to enjoy emcees Scott Riley and Lisa Stevens from the Star 98.3 Morning Show as well as the upbeat tunes from DJ Sauvenator. YMCA Chilliwack, Optimum Sports Performance Clinic, Kintec Inc, Garrision Running Co, and more were at the event supporting runners and walkers.
The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation is also thanking the Chilliwack Kiwanis Sardis Club for their annual support and help with the Pancake Breakfast.
“Many businesses and organizations stepped up in various ways to help us offset costs and raise more funds for the Hospital.” says Vanderhorst. “We are grateful for donations of all sizes, helping us make this event a huge success once again, including all the volunteers giving generously of their time.”
Donations are still being accepted for this year’s event to further support CGH Maternity. To donate online, please visit www.fvhcf.ca. Next year’s Run for Mom is planned for May 12, 2018.