18th annual Challenge for Life raises nearly $1.8 million for CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
Posted June 14, 2025 5:11 pm.
Last Updated June 15, 2025 11:03 am.
The 18th annual Challenge for Life was a huge success, with well over 1,000 participants raising nearly $1.8 million for the CancerCare Manitoba foundation.
“This is the 18th year for Challenge for Life, this is a record-breaking year, this year we actually crossed over $20 million raised over 18 years by the most incredible community a person could ever want to be a part of,” said Patti Smith, the President and CEO of CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
“It’s a time to feel hopeful, and we’re so grateful to this whole big amazing community.”
The event featured a 5k and 20k walk, along with a 200-minute exercise challenge. With participants raising money, all for a great cause.
This event stays in Manitoba, supporting CancerCare Manitoba Foundation and Manitoba people with cancer. It’ll support research, clinical trials, enhanced patient care and support programs for people with cancer,” explained Smith.
Lauren Harvey raised $14,00 for the event, though her 7-year-old son Sebastian is largely to thank for that.
“I raised half,” said Sebastian.
Lauren adding, “My dad is actually on the cancer care board and has always been very passionate about the cause, so we are really inspired to walk for him, and he’s in year 10 of his cancer care journey, and he couldn’t be here today so we’re walking on his behalf.”
The event was filled with people with inspiring stories. Including Joel Matheson, who was celebrating a very special milestone.
“It’s been one year to the day since I started chemo for MDS bone marrow cancer, and I thought it was fitting to be here today to mark that occasion and to raise money for CancerCare Foundation because they’ve done so much, they saved my life,” Matheson explained.
He says looking up and seeing nearly $1.8 million raised was a special feeling.
“Oh, it’s amazing. Glad to be a part of it, and uh…this is my first year doing it, and I’ll be back next time, and this is going to be a lifelong thing now to support this foundation.”
