Ovarian Cancer Walk Honors Laurie Boulaine and Raises Funds

Participants in the upcoming Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope will honor the memory of Laurie Boulaine, an educator who lost her battle with ovarian cancer in August 2013. Boulaine, a dedicated mother of four and a beloved teacher, passed away at the age of 51, leaving a lasting impact on her community. Her friend and fellow teacher, Jane Vienneau, described her as “warm and caring,” emphasizing the “unconditional love” she shared with those around her.

Vienneau leads a group known as Laurie’s Girls, one of six teams registered for the second annual walk, which takes place on September 7, 2024, at Bellevue Park. The event aims to raise funds for ovarian cancer research and support, with ovarian cancer survivor Sharon Vanderburg set to deliver a keynote speech.

Boulaine was diagnosed with ovarian cancer shortly before her death, a disease often difficult to detect due to its vague symptoms, which can include bloating, changes in urinary habits, and difficulty eating. Vienneau highlighted the challenges of early diagnosis, stating, “Your chances of survival aren’t all that great” when the disease is identified at later stages.

As the captain of Laurie’s Girls, Vienneau also serves as the walk’s co-chair and is the president of the Zonta Club of Sault Ste. Marie and Area, the organization hosting the event. Last year, the five-kilometer walk attracted around 100 participants and raised $12,000. This year, Vienneau aims to surpass that total, setting a goal of $15,000.

As of the latest updates, the six participating teams have collectively raised $3,535. Registration for the event begins at 9:00 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies at 10:00 a.m. Organizers plan to enhance the experience for participants by adding more signage throughout the park to guide walkers. Pre-registration is available through the Ovarian Cancer Canada website.

The national fundraising goal for this year’s event is $1.5 million, with pledges already exceeding $840,000.

In addition to the walk, the Zonta Club will host its 10th annual event, Purses, Pies and Pinot, on September 18, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. This event will feature a silent auction of 15 purses and various pies, with proceeds benefiting ovarian cancer initiatives and scholarships for students at local educational institutions. Vienneau expressed a focus on showcasing Canadian designers and artisans, stating, “With everything going on, we want to draw our attention closer to home.”

Looking ahead, the Zonta Club also plans to introduce a women’s health fair in May 2026, aimed at raising awareness about ovarian cancer and other health issues. This initiative aligns with the observance of World Ovarian Cancer Day on May 8. Details regarding the fair and its location will be announced in due course.

The commitment of community members like Vienneau and the teams participating in the walk continues to play a crucial role in the fight against ovarian cancer, ensuring that the legacy of individuals like Laurie Boulaine remains a driving force for change and awareness.