Quesnel Sisters Launch 50km Walk for Cancer Research Fundraiser

URGENT UPDATE: Two determined sisters from Quesnel, Haleigh Fenton and Cassidy Cole, are embarking on a 50-kilometre walk this September to raise funds for glioblastoma research, honoring their father, Wade Fenton, who is battling terminal cancer. The event is set to bring awareness and support for families facing similar challenges.

In a devastating turn of events, Wade was diagnosed with terminal glioblastoma on August 9, 2024, after undergoing brain surgery in Vancouver. The prognosis was grim, with doctors estimating he had only four months to live without treatment. “That was like a huge gut punch,” said Cassidy. “How is this actually happening?”

Despite the initial shock, Wade’s family rallied around him, ensuring he received treatment, which included multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. Recently, the family celebrated a milestone—Wade’s one-year survival after surgery—which is significant, given that less than 5% of glioblastoma patients survive this long.

However, their joy was short-lived as a recent MRI revealed that Wade’s tumor had quadrupled in size, causing additional complications. “It’s really sinking in now for everyone,” Cassidy added. “Things are getting pretty real now.”

In response to their father’s struggle, Haleigh and Cassidy have organized a walking fundraiser called “Wade’s Warriors” on the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) website. They aim to raise funds for advanced brain cancer treatments and have already garnered $3,300 in donations. Haleigh hopes to raise awareness about their father’s story and the harsh realities of glioblastoma, saying, “Unless some miracle drug comes out tomorrow, I think we’ve done all that we can do. But the hope is that families like ours will have a chance in the future.”

“Every single day, he asks who’s joined the team,” Haleigh shared, emphasizing the community support around their cause.

Participants can complete the 50 kilometres at their own pace throughout September. Haleigh’s motivational video on TikTok has already inspired people globally, connecting families dealing with similar situations. “The number of people who’ve reached out from across the world makes my sister and me feel more connected and less alone,” Haleigh stated.

Wade’s journey has also included fulfilling items on his bucket list, such as attending a NASCAR race and traveling to Cuba. The family continues to prioritize making memories together, including a recent celebration of Wade and his wife Dani’s 24th anniversary on August 4.

As the sisters prepare for their ambitious walk, they invite everyone to join their efforts in raising funds and awareness. “It’s basically just to raise awareness,” Haleigh explained, encouraging people to track their progress on Strava and share their experiences online.

To support Wade’s Warriors and contribute to the fight against glioblastoma, visit the CCS fundraising page: Wade’s Warriors Fundraising Page.

This September, the Fenton sisters are not just walking for their dad—they’re advocating for a future where families battling cancer have better options and hope.