Sindy’s Run Raises $30,000 for Pancreatic Cancer Research

Around 70 participants gathered in Kanata on a chilly Saturday morning to take part in **Sindy’s Run**, a fundraising event aimed at supporting pancreatic cancer research at **The Ottawa Hospital**. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and camaraderie, as attendees engaged in cheerful activities like bake sales and family-friendly runs, all while honoring the legacy of **Sindy Hooper**, a beloved mother and friend.

Sindy, an elite triathlete, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer over **12 years ago** and passed away in **September 2024** at the age of 61. Her family and friends organized this year’s event to continue her mission of raising awareness and funds for cancer research, building on last year’s success which raised approximately **$30,000**.

Honoring a Legacy

Janet McKeage, chair of the **Ottawa Hospital Foundation** and a long-time friend of Sindy, expressed her gratitude for the community’s support. “I’m super happy to be part of this and all the work that Sindy, Jon (Hooper’s husband), and the group have done to raise money,” she stated. McKeage fondly remembered Sindy’s radiant positivity, noting, “Even when she felt her worst, she always was positive and believed in telling people to make the most of every day.”

Despite the recent cold and rainy weather, the turnout surpassed expectations, demonstrating the community’s commitment to this important cause. McKeage highlighted the urgency of pancreatic cancer research, stating, “Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, and survival rates haven’t improved significantly. Sadly, people die very quickly.”

Sindy’s journey inspired many in her community to come together and contribute to a cause that needs increased attention and funding.

Advancements in Research

During the event, **Dr. John Bell**, a senior scientist focused on cancer research at The Ottawa Hospital, addressed the crowd, sharing insights into new treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer. He acknowledged that traditional methods, such as chemotherapy and radiation, often fail to provide the desired outcomes because they can damage healthy tissues in the process of targeting cancer cells.

Dr. Bell’s research is centered on **targeted therapy**, which aims to enhance the immune system’s ability to identify and eliminate cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues. He also discussed the promising development of a potential vaccine for pancreatic cancer patients, although it remains in the early stages of research.

“The money that you’re raising, which goes to The Ottawa Hospital, supports efforts to create new therapies that can significantly improve patient outcomes,” Dr. Bell told attendees. He emphasized the excitement surrounding the concept of a cancer vaccine, remarking, “People have been dreaming of it for years. It’s now starting to happen, largely due to the support of people like you who continue to back cancer research globally.”

Sindy’s Run not only celebrates the life of a remarkable individual but also serves as a beacon of hope for those affected by pancreatic cancer. The dedication of the community to raise awareness and funds for research underscores the importance of continued support in the fight against this devastating disease.