TrainingFolks Walks and Rides to Create More Survivors
The day was rainy and gloomy, but the smiles on the faces of the TrainingFolks team were sunny and bright as we gathered at the Enercare Centre early Sunday morning, June 4, for the Becel Heart & Stroke Ride for Heart in Toronto.
It is part of our corporate mission to give back to the community, and raising funds for this important cause is one way we can show our support. This was the fifth consecutive year TrainingFolks participated in this incredible event, joining 15,000 cyclists and 5,000 runners and walkers who took over the Gardiner Expressway and Don Valley Parkway. Organizers say that the event surpassed the fundraising goal of $6 million.
This year, the focus was on the genetic factors that lead to cardiovascular disease. It was always apparent that family history played a part in our risk factors, and while we don’t believe genes should be our destiny, researchers currently know only 20% to 30% of the genes involved. With the right funding, doctors predict they could unlock the genetic puzzle behind this disease within as little as five years.
We have all been touched by heart disease, whether family, friends or colleagues, and the event this year was particularly personal for Jenny Rice, a Senior Learning Advisor with TrainingFolks. “This year my 10 year old son Kian and I raised over $2,300 on behalf of my dad who had successful triple bypass and valve replacement surgery on May 18,” says Jenny. “Walking for him alongside so many other survivors was just a great experience.”
As our population ages, the risks of heart attack and stroke will continue to increase. According to Heart & Stroke, up to 80% of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented by making better health and lifestyle choices.
We are proud to have reached our fundraising goal of $7500! To those who donated to TrainingFolks, a big thank you, and congrats to everyone!
Also, if you haven’t already donated there is still time – the donations will be open until Friday, June 9. Please help us surpass our goal and create more survivors – donate today!