The I’m a Breast Buddy fundraiser showcasing a two-day ski/board-a-thon to raise funds for East Kootenay Foundation for Health (EKFH) can officially be claimed a resounding success.
The event held recently at the Fernie Alpine Resort, enticed 27 enthusiastic I’m a Breast Buddy skiers and snowboarders to collect pledges and donations all in support of the A Clear View – digital mammography campaign.
The pledges and donations were based on the number of runs the individual would make over a two-day period. Stephanie Rogers, Event Coordinator, and Donna Grainger, EKFH Executive Director, said they were astonished by the final tally of just over $25,000.
“What was amazing about this event is not just the financial gift; Stephanie as an event coordinator went over and above in ensuring everyone understood what the campaign is all about,” said Grainger. “I had so many people stopping by to just talk about the impact a digital stereotactic mammography unit will make for the region. Not only was the sunshine bright and beautiful during the event, the spirit of people living in the Elk Valley for this project was as well.”
A cross-section of participants from all over the world resulted in donations from North America, Europe, Australia and more. The I’m a Breast Buddy concept seemed to not only pull at the heart strings of the skiers and boarders but many participants sold their t-shirts to others while on the slopes and received pockets full of change while in the lift lines or at the day lodge. From pennies to single donations of $1,000 the I’m a Breast Buddy event was unique and fun.
East Kootenay Foundation for Health’s A Clear View – digital mammography campaign is a two-year, $1 million fundraising effort. The campaign’s pledges and donations sit at just over $736,000 towards its goal.
The I’m A Breast Buddy event may be over but if the passion for helping someone who may face a breast cancer diagnosis appeals to you, you can still make a donation by visiting our secured websites: www.aclearview.ca or www.ekfh.ca.