“It’s not me, it’s the community, the MRC, that keep the Betty Riel Foundation going,” explains Betty Riel. She’s beaming after a spectacular turnout last Sunday June 6th, when the charity held their 10th anniversary of the Walk-A-Thon, which took place in the Prince Arthur Park in Huntingdon, Quebec.
With a turnout of about 200 people, the non-profit raised close to $13,000—translating to about four months of rides for patients headed into the city for treatment. The charity, which works in collaboration with driving service S.A.B.E.C. to provide transportation to cancer patients headed into the city for treatment, rang in a decade of service this year. In the spirit of celebration, the event went off like a party should, with live music, a BBQ and face painting—a few people even went so far as to cut their hair for the cause (the locks are then donated to the appropriate charity). Several vendors were on hand to contribute, making the sunny day a memorable one.
One particularly moving moment for the Betty Riel Foundation over the weekend was a donation made by Chateauguay Valley Regional high school student Rosie Tarquinio, who had hosted her own fundraiser at her school in order to raise funds to contribute to the cause.
Next up for the non-profit is the Betty Riel Foundation Triathlon, set to kick off on August 15th, 2015. The event calls for 25 teams, with three participants per team to bike, kayak or run a portion of the race in order to raise funds for the Betty Riel Foundation. According to the charity, “It’s an event that will run cancer right out of the Chateauguay Valley.” In addition to getting a workout in for a great cause, participants and supporters will enjoy a healthy menu afterwards using only naturally sourced ingredients prepared by local caterer Marie Shewchuk. The race, which will commence at CVR in the morning, will bring racers through Dewittville to Huntingdon and back to Ormstown for the finale, which will be a celebration of sorts for survivors and supporters alike.
For more information about the upcoming triathlon, contact Peter Bulow at 450-264-9313.
