For the past 21 years, Sporting Life has raised money for Camp Ooch, with a 10k walk or run. Camp Ooch is a camp for children affected by childhood cancer, a place where they can come and be themselves, a place to celebrate who they are and not what they have.
Since 2000, Sporting Life has raised over $21 million dollars with 335,000 participants in the run. This year and last has been done virtually, meaning that the participants still raise money, and still run, but at the comfort of their environments and timelines. Many participants can run on the treadmill, on a trail or even as many times as 1k a day or 10 days between May 9th- May 30th.
This virtual run may be different but it is still very important to the families and children of Camp Ooch. As a participant, you receive a fantastic run shirt, a finisher medal, a virtual running bib and a Sporting Life 10k promo code. By running virtually you are still giving it your all to support Camp Ooch but also protecting those around you by following provincial guidelines involved with COVID-19.
Every day kids that are battling cancer are isolated from friends and families while they are being treated in hospitals or at home. With the help of the Sporting Life 10k fundraiser 10,000+ virtual and in-hospital experiences have allowed kids to interact and enjoy fun experiences with friends and families, giving them a lifeline during their battles and through the pandemic.
Camp Ooch gives children and families the opportunities to forget about the battle and just enjoy time with each other, having fun, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. With the funds raised by the Sporting Life 10k, Camp Ooch continues to serve kids and families in the hospital and at home, through a virtual program. They are working to bring back in person overnight/day camp and community events as soon as this summer.
No matter where the events take place, Camp Ooch will be there for children and families in need, and will always be helping and supporting those who need the fun and laughter in their lives.