“BRIGHT has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.”
Why and how did you originally get involved with BRIGHT Run?
My mother, Beverly Pond, used to be part of the BRIGHT Run executive committee and, growing up, the BRIGHT Run was a yearly thing for our family. Eventually, I went from running or walking every year to volunteering and doing my part to ensure everyone’s experience is as good as it can be. I have also gained a deep connection to the cause, making sure that we can raise as much awareness and support for breast cancer research in Hamilton, and making sure that no survivor or fighter is alone.
How would you describe your BRIGHT Run experience to someone who is considering volunteering with us?
BRIGHT has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. To walk out on the morning of the run and see the faces of survivors and their families smiling and enjoying life in a way they may not have seen as possible is unbelievable. If you are considering joining the team, there is always a welcoming spot, and I can’t thank Nancy, Kathie, David, Cornelia and every member of the team enough for creating the environment that we enjoy every year. Our environment has such a loving feel to it and it radiates across all the volunteers and the participants. It is also such a fun experience. Whether it’s meeting some of the most resilient people in the world or just getting out and experiencing the joys that BRIGHT has to offer, there is so much fun to be had.
Summarize BRIGHT Run volunteering in one word.
Unbelievable
What is your most memorable BRIGHT Run volunteer moment.
There certainly is no shortage of memorable BRIGHT moments but witnessing the growth of the event has been unbelievable for me. Having to move from Dundas Valley Conservation Area to the Christie Lake Conservation Area just to accommodate the number of people coming to the event was an amazing sight. Seeing more and more people join the event every year is important and watching everyone show up on run day is certainly worth the 6 a.m. wake-ups and rainy days. The growth of the event and the amount of money raised each year is a source of pride for each volunteer and I get emotional seeing the amount of the cheque each year.
What makes the BRIGHT Run volunteer experience special?
The easy answer is the people. From the top of the executive on down to the youngest volunteers and participants, there is no shortage of amazing people working for, volunteering with, and supporting BRIGHT. These individuals are the core of the BRIGHT Run, and there really is a special connection between each individual, regardless of their role, who attends the BRIGHT Run. I also add that the resiliency and courage of the survivors and fighters adds a special element to the run that you won’t find anywhere else. It is such a fun experience, and that is translated across the people and the friends at BRIGHT.
Can’t wait for BRIGHT Run once again this year!!
