The Northern BC Myeloma Support Group has been recognized by its parent national organization for going the extra mile in its Myeloma March at Otway Nordic Centre, Sept. 16.
The event raised more than $27,000, making it Myeloma Canada’s seventh-most successful group for fundraising.
That more than doubled the goal of $10,000 for the event.
“The Northern BC Myeloma Support Group would like to send the Prince George community a huge thank you for the support we received during our recent fund raiser; the 16th annual Myeloma March,” said group volunteer Vivian Lougheed in a media release.
“Not only did we receive financial support and in-kind gifts that amounted to double our goal, but the media brought so much attention to our event that resulted in over 100 people participating at the walk. And, we now have new members who, I hope, will find the support they and their care givers and families may need.”
Multiple myeloma is a rare form blood cancer that develops in the bone marrow and it that affects just seven of 100,000 people in North America.
The disease affects the plasma cells in the blood that are part of the body’s immune system. Normally, the plasma cells are white blood cells that build antibodies that fight infection.
Multiple myeloma causes abnormalities that multiply and produce defective antibodies impacts the body’s ability to make white and red blood cells and platelets which causes adverse effects on the bones and kidneys.
“The finances raised will go to more research so maybe, in our lifetime, they will find a cure,” said Lougheed. “In the meantime, Myeloma Canada assists and supports those afflicted with the condition.”
The local myeloma support group meets every third Saturday of the month from 1-3 p.m. at the Columbus Community Centre in College Heights at 27201 St. Lawrence Ave.
For more information email [email protected] or call Vivian at 250-561-7099.
You can also visit Myeloma Canada’s website.
