Sooke steps up for Wounded Warrior Run

The first leg of the Wounded Warrior Run B.C. in Sooke on Sunday was a record-setting event .

The eight participants took part in the Wounded Warrior 60-kilometre run from Sooke to Sidney raised $3,650 for Wounded Warrior Canada.

"That's the most we've raised in the four years we've been in Sooke," said Wounded Warrior Run BC director Jacqueline Zweng. "Thanks to the Sooke Legion for hosting the event and their donation, and thanks to the two Lions Clubs. It was amazing to have that kind of support from police, fire and ambulance and the community as well."

Zweng said she hopes the wave of support Wounded Warriors received on Sunday carries over through the main event, which takes place Feb. 24 to March 3. It involves eight participants who cover an 800-km relay-style run from Port Hardy to Victoria. This is the 11th year for the Wounded Warrior Run BC.

Wounded Warriors Canada is a nationally recognized mental health service provider dedicated to serving ill and injured trauma-exposed professionals and their families.

"Our range of clinically facilitated programs have been developed to support the unique needs of veterans, first responders and their families," Zweng said. "Our programs support individuals, couples, spouses, surviving family members, and children of those who serve or have served our country and communities."

Wounded Warriors Canada recognizes that only through ongoing partnerships, multi-organizational collaborations, and sustained community involvement can trauma-exposed professionals and their families recover from their injuries and return to a state of well-being.

To make a donation, visit woundedwarriorrunbc.ca.

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