The Fight Against Cancer Hits the Slopes

(Feb. 4) (NELSON) The Canadian Cancer Society is teaming up with Whitewater Ski Resort to present the newest fundraiser in the battle against cancer- Slopes for Hope!Slopes for Hope is an “Everest-style” ski-a-thon in which participants attempt to ski the vertical of Mount Everest in one day at Whitewater Ski Resort. Participants can sign up as individuals for a personal challenge, or in teams (of up to 4 people) and split the distance between team members. Throughout the day there will also be activities and entertainment at the base of the mountain and a wrap-up prize ceremony at the end of the day. The event is taking place on the mountain’s traditional Redneck Day, which also falls on St. Patrick’s Day this year, so it is sure to be full of fun!According to the Canadian Cancer Society 30-35% of cancers can be prevented by being active, eating well, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. “Skiing/Snowboarding is a great way to stay active during the winter months, and that’s why we are so excited to be partnering with Whitewater Ski Resort on this event,” says Tara Kowalchuk, Annual Giving Coordinator for the Society, “It is a great way to get our cancer prevention messaging out to the community, raise funds to support our mission, and have fun! It is a perfect fit!”Participants are asked to fundraise prior to the event and thanks to the generosity of Whitewater Ski Resort, all participants who raise $100 or more will be entitled to a half price lift ticket for the day of the event. Funds raised through the event will help the Canadian Cancer Society fund excellence in cancer research, cancer prevention initiatives, and support services such as wig banks, lodges near treatment centres, Cancer Information Service, and Camp Goodtimes for children with cancer and their families. To learn more about what the Canadian Cancer Society does in your community and the services they provide go to www.cancer.ca.Slopes for Hope will be taking place at Whitewater Resort on Saturday, March 17. “This is a great new event, and a wonderful way for the ski community to get involved in the fight against cancer,” says Kowalchuk. “We hope to have a big turnout and make a big difference, so please sign up, tell your friends, and come out to support Slopes!”To register go to www.slopesforhope.ca. For more information, or if you would like to volunteer for the event, call Tara at 250-364-0403.