Meet Kevin: Running 101 km for SickKids
Kevin describes himself as just an average guy who is trying to be the best dad that he can be. A dad who, after losing his step-daughter to brain cancer a little over five years ago, is honouring her through a 101 km run on September 19 that will raise funds in support of SickKids.“After I lost Megan to cancer, I always wanted to do something to give back to the hospital that helped her so much,” said Kevin. “It took a few years after her death to get back on solid ground. But as soon as I felt ready, I started to think of ways to give back to SickKids.”
That way turned out to be running. Kevin has always had a passion for it. And it became a source of therapy for him during the tough times.
“If I had a million dollars, I would give that to SickKids,” said Kevin. “I do have running though, so I decided to use that to help out as much as I can.”
On September 19 at 5 a.m., Kevin will set out on a 101 km run from Toronto to Barrie. He will have a few friends and family joining him at different points along the route, which he hopes to complete in 12 hours.
"If I had a million dollars I would give that to SickKids."
This is not the first year Kevin will be challenging himself with the 101 km distance. Last year, Kevin decided to conquer the Toronto to Barrie route for the first time in an effort to raise money for SickKids. It turned out to be a tough first attempt as it was cold and rainy for almost the entire run. But no matter how difficult the conditions got, Kevin did not stop and made it all the way to Barrie.
“I spent almost seven years in the Canadian Armed Forces. When I hit a wall, I would start to think of some of the great motivational sayings they have like ‘pain is just weakness leaving the body.’ Sometimes in life, the only thing you can do is put your head down and push on, so that is what I did.”
Last year’s run taught Kevin a lot. He learned he could physically manage a distance that far, even with the weather obstacle thrown his way. He also learned how important it is to have friends and family along as his road crew. They were huge supporters and provided constant encouragement to stay strong. This year, he is looking forward to putting that learning to the test, for an even better run and to raise even more funds.
On behalf of everyone at SickKids, we wish to say THANK YOU and good luck! And we are keeping our fingers crossed for clear skies and perfect running weather.
