This year’s Run for It program was another success as over 60 St.Augustine students participated in the SHOPPERS LOVE. YOU. Run For Women 5K run. The dedicated Titans trained for the 5K race within six weeks, along with learning how to address and challenge the stigma associated with mental illness.

This year’s run had 2,100 participants registered, who raised awareness and over $250,000 for Markham Stouffville Hospital women’s mental health programs! Starting at the Markham Civic Centre, individuals and teams walked or ran in a 5K or 10K race along Warden and 16th Avenue. Children 12 and under also had a chance to make an impact in the 1K-Little Steps race. The benefits of running and fitness in general goes beyond our body. Exercise is also one of the most effective ways to improve your mental health. This community race was an example of how exercise brought the laughter and motivation of friends and family together.

The students showed up on the early morning of Sunday, April 28, 2019. The cold weather did not stop them from taking on the challenge, instead it strengthened the team’s bond as we huddled and warmed up together. Congratulations to all the participants of the race and thank you to Ms. Murphy and Ms. Aranha for leading us throughout the 6 weeks! Together we can benefit local women’s mental health initiatives and make a change!

 

By: Jennifer Luk