Sindy’s Run Raises Funds and Spirits for Pancreatic Cancer Research

On a brisk Saturday morning in Kanata, approximately 70 individuals came together to participate in Sindy’s Run, a fundraising event dedicated to supporting pancreatic cancer research at The Ottawa Hospital. Attendees, including families and pets, gathered in front of the Hooper residence, where they embraced the chilly weather with warmth and camaraderie.

Sindy Hooper, a beloved mother and friend, was an elite triathlete who battled pancreatic cancer for over 12 years before passing away in September 2024 at the age of 61. Her friends and family organized this event to honor her legacy, which included raising awareness about the disease and supporting vital research. Last year, the run successfully raised around $30,000, and this year, participants were hopeful for a similar outcome.

Janet McKeage, chair of the Ottawa Hospital Foundation and a long-time friend of Hooper, expressed her gratitude for the turnout. “I’m super happy to be part of this and all the work that Sindy, Jon (Hooper’s husband), and the group have done to raise money,” she stated. McKeage reflected on Hooper’s radiant spirit, noting, “I miss Sindy’s laugh and smile. Even when she felt her worst, she always was positive and believed in telling people to make the most of every day.”

The event featured a bake sale, and the atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy, despite the cold temperatures. Attendees were particularly encouraged by the support shown after a rainy Halloween, which could have dampened participation.

Advancements in Pancreatic Cancer Research

During the event, Dr. John Bell, a senior scientist for cancer research at The Ottawa Hospital, addressed the crowd, sharing insights into the current state of pancreatic cancer treatment. He highlighted the challenges with traditional methods such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which often fail to distinguish between healthy and cancerous tissues.

Dr. Bell is working on targeted therapy, a promising approach that strengthens a patient’s immune system to specifically attack cancer cells. He also discussed the potential development of a vaccine for pancreatic cancer, which is still in its preliminary research phases but has shown encouraging results.

“The money that you’re raising, which goes to The Ottawa Hospital, goes towards those sorts of efforts to try to make new therapies for patients that can really change the outcomes for their lives,” Bell told participants. He emphasized the importance of community support in advancing cancer research, stating, “This new concept of a cancer vaccine is really quite exciting, and people have been dreaming of it for years. It’s now starting to happen.”

The spirit of Sindy Hooper continues to inspire those who knew her and those who participate in events like Sindy’s Run. Friends and family are motivated by her mission to raise awareness and funding for pancreatic cancer research, which remains critically underfunded. As the community comes together, they not only honor her legacy but also contribute to the fight against a disease that affects countless lives.