Help Shaylynn raise money

This November, I'll be running my first full marathon at the Hamilton Road2Hope Marathon in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.

Earlier this year, my dad was diagnosed with stage 2 lung cancer. Since then, we've experienced the uncertainty, the fear, countless appointments and scans, lobectomy surgery, current chemotherapy treatments, and the emotional ups and downs that come with a cancer diagnosis.

Watching someone you love face cancer changes your perspective. It has shown me the strength, courage, and resilience it takes to fight this disease for not only the person diagnosed, but for their family and loved ones as well.

I’m fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society because they provide vital support for people living with cancer, fund life-saving research, and work toward a future where fewer families have to face this disease.

Through it all, I've been amazed by my dad's strength and determination, as well as the incredible care and support he's received. It has shown me just how important cancer research, patient support programs, and organizations like the Canadian Cancer Society truly are.

When I began training for my half marathon in April, I had no real plan. The training was one of the biggest physical and mental challenges I've ever endured. There were countless early mornings, aches, pains, and moments when I wanted to quit. But every time the training got hard, I reminded myself that my challenge was temporary. The challenges faced by those living with cancer and the people who love them are so much greater. 

So what else would I do but push myself all over again and run a full marathon. I'm running every one of those 42.2 kilometres in honour of my dad and everyone whose lives have been touched by cancer.

If you're able, I would be incredibly grateful for your support. Every donation, no matter the amount, helps fund groundbreaking research, provides support for patients and families, and brings hope to those facing one of life's toughest battles.

Cancer doesn’t just affect one person, it affects entire families. This marathon is my way of giving back, honouring my dad’s journey, and helping create hope for the families who will face this battle next. Thank you for believing in me and this cause, for supporting my marathon journey, and for helping me turn 42.2 kilometres into something that matters.

Running marathons was never my dream, but it was someone else’s that couldn’t. 

Please note: If I am unable to participate in the marathon on November 1st due to illness, injury, or any other unforeseen circumstance, all donations will remain non-refundable and will still be donated in full to the Canadian Cancer Society. 

Thank you for supporting me, the Canadian Cancer Society, and the patients and families whose lives are touched by cancer. Your support means more than you know.