Ovarian Cancer Walk Honors Educator Laurie Boulaine’s Legacy

The second annual Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope on September 7, 2024, will honor the memory of educator Laurie Boulaine, who succumbed to ovarian cancer in August 2013 at the age of 51. Boulaine, a mother of four, was described as “one-of-a-kind” by her friend and fellow teacher Jane Vienneau. Vienneau recalled Boulaine’s nurturing spirit, stating, “She was just warm and caring. Unconditional love.”

Boulaine’s legacy continues through “Laurie’s Girls,” a team formed by her friends and colleagues. This group is among the six teams participating in the upcoming event at Bellevue Park, which aims to raise funds for ovarian cancer research. The walk will feature a speech from Sharon Vanderburg, a survivor of the disease.

Ovarian cancer is notoriously difficult to detect, often presenting symptoms such as bloating and changes in urinary habits, which can mimic other conditions. Tragically, Boulaine was diagnosed the same year she passed away, highlighting the urgency of raising awareness and funds for research. Vienneau noted, “Your chances of survival aren’t all that great,” emphasizing the need for early detection and better support systems.

As captain of Laurie’s Girls, Vienneau is also the co-chair of the walk and president of the Zonta Club of Sault Ste. Marie and Area, which is hosting the event. Last year, the five-kilometer walk raised $12,000 and attracted approximately 100 participants. This year, Vienneau aims to increase the fundraising total to $15,000. As of September 2, 2024, the six registered teams have collectively raised $3,535.

Registration for the walk begins at 09:00, with opening ceremonies set for 10:00. Enhanced signposting will guide participants throughout the downtown park. Pre-registration is available at ovariancanada.org/events/ovarian-cancer-canada-walk-of-hope. The national fundraising goal for the event is set at $1.5 million, with pledges surpassing $840,000 as of the latest updates.

In addition to the walk, Zonta Club will host its 10th annual event, “Purses, Pies and Pinot,” on September 18, 2024, at The Water Tower Inn. The event will feature 15 purses and various pies and treats available for auction, all sourced from Canadian designers and artisans. Vienneau explained the focus on local products, stating, “With everything going on, we want to draw our attention closer to home.” Tickets for this event cost $60 and are available at The Shoe Fits! in Station Mall. Since its inception, this initiative has raised over $50,000 for Ovarian Cancer Canada, with this year’s proceeds benefiting scholarships for students at local educational institutions.

Looking ahead, Zonta plans to introduce a women’s health fair in May 2026, coinciding with World Ovarian Cancer Day on May 8. This fair will aim to raise awareness about ovarian cancer and other health issues affecting women, featuring speakers and potentially a fashion show.

As the community prepares for the walk and associated events, the focus remains on celebrating Laurie Boulaine’s life while supporting critical research and raising awareness about ovarian cancer.