Virtual event yields real dollars for hospital

'Even though we were not able to gather together, we could really feel the energy in our community from all those who were participating and posting on social media over the weekend.'

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1 / 1 Team Hughes was powered by 12 legs, four wheels and one baby as they raised funds for the Our Hospital Walk/Run. Photo submitted.

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The 14th annual Our Hospital Walk/Run will go down in the books as unlike any other in its history but organizers say what shone through is the community spirit and generosity.

The logistics of raising funds — while practicing social distancing and taking part virtually —was a challenge heartily accepted by the 210 participants, who raised nearly $85,000 in support of the North Bay Regional Health Centre. That brings the grand total to more than $1.4 million raised by Our Hospital Walk/Run since 2006.

"It was so heartwarming to know that our community was engaged and inspired to participate, fundraise, and sponsor this year’s Walk/Run," says Tammy Morison, NBRHC Foundation President and CEO. "Even though we were not able to gather together, we could really feel the energy in our community from all those who were participating and posting on social media over the weekend."

This year's event celebrated and acknowledged all frontline workers and raised funds for advanced medical equipment to serve the community. It featured 29 teams comprised of businesses, families, and friends, walking and running the family mile, 5-kilometre, 10 km or 14 km virtual events.

Opening ceremonies and morning warm-up routines were streamed over social media and walkers and runners posted their results online while inspiring others to also go the extra mile.

Organizers give special thanks and recognition to these 29 teams who stood together and stayed six feet apart: