Over 500 Join Golden Strides Walk, Raising $75,000 for Childhood Cancer

A total of 514 participants gathered at the Shift Community Recreation Centre in Coaldale on September 20, 2023, for the inaugural Golden Strides Walk: Steps to End Childhood Cancer. The event successfully raised over $75,000 for childhood cancer research, surpassing the organizers’ goal of 300 participants.

Event organizer Tristin Mercer expressed her excitement over the turnout, stating, “Over 500 walkers laced up and together we took more than two million steps for childhood cancer. I was overwhelmed. It was amazing to see the registration numbers climb when we exceeded our 300 (walkers) goal. We were so proud.” Mercer emphasized the collective power of the participants, noting, “One person’s steps might feel small, but when we all move together, the impact is huge.”

The day was filled with energy, highlighted by a warm-up session led by Olympian Kacie Bosch. The family-friendly atmosphere featured a kids’ zone with face painting and balloon animals, alongside food trucks and live music. The event also saw the participation of Canadian Blood Services and relied on the support of 40 volunteers, 23 sponsors, and numerous prize donors who contributed to its success.

Participants came from various locations, including Coaldale, Coalhurst, and Lethbridge, as well as from outside the province, including Kelowna. Mercer noted that some family and friends joined virtually from as far as Australia.

Coaldale Mayor Jack Van Rijn participated in the walk with his partner, Martine, and spoke about the deeper significance of the event. “Every step we take is a reminder of the courage of children who are battling, the strength of the families who walk beside them, and the memory of precious children whose lives were taken far too soon,” he stated. Van Rijn acknowledged that the walk was inspired by Kinley Mercer‘s life, emphasizing the purpose behind the event.

Mercer pointed out that the contributions from local organizations and sponsors played a crucial role in the event’s success. “Our title sponsor, the Kinsmen Club of Coaldale, believed in us before this event had even begun. We are so grateful for their leadership and generosity, as well as the support of every sponsor, volunteer, and family that made today so special,” she remarked.

Brad Calder, president of the Kinsmen Club of Coaldale, shared that supporting the cause was a natural choice for their organization, which focuses on helping children. “When Tristin came to us, it was an easy decision for us. We do Kids Cancer Care and Golden Strides Walk now, and we enjoy that,” Calder said.

Scott MacNeil from Coalhurst attended the event with his family, expressing his enthusiasm for the turnout. “I think it’s fantastic. For an inaugural event, it’s as good as it gets,” he noted.

As excitement builds, organizers are already planning for the next Golden Strides Walk in 2026, aiming to expand the event and continue raising awareness and funds for childhood cancer research.