Determination throughout Diagnosis: Hannah Manning’s Return to Running and Fundraising for the Ottawa Hospital Foundation

 

For Hannah Manning, running has always been about connection, whether with friends along the Rideau Canal, bonding with her partner, or finding camaraderie in Ottawa’s vibrant running community. But in 2023, her life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at just 32 years old.

Manning discovered a lump during a self-exam, prompting her to visit her doctor. A mammogram at The Ottawa Hospital Breast Health Centre confirmed the diagnosis, and she was quickly thrown into a whirlwind of treatment. “It was a shock,” she recalls. “My tumour was aggressive and fast-growing, and without early detection, my story could have been very different.” Over the following months, she underwent surgery, 16 rounds of chemotherapy, and four weeks of radiation therapy. The treatment was gruelling, both physically and mentally, but she found strength in the support of her medical team, loved ones, and the local running community.

A New Challenge and a Bigger Goal

As she navigated treatment, Manning had to step away from running. Fatigue became one of her biggest challenges, and the mental weight of a cancer diagnosis made staying active difficult. However, she found solace in yoga, swimming, and the unwavering encouragement of her support system. Dominion City Run Club became a place where she could still feel connected to the running community, even when she wasn’t up for the full route. “Dominion City Run Club gave me a reason to get out of the house each week. I didn’t have to worry about being bald or not following the planned route—everyone was super supportive.”

By May 2024, she had completed her active treatment, just in time to participate in the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 5K. Walking the distance was a major milestone in her recovery. “Ottawa always shows up for Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, and all the encouragement from people along the way meant so much,” she says. “It was very emotional crossing the finish line.”

Now, she’s gearing up for an even bigger challenge in 2025. Her original fundraising goal was $170 – $10 for each kilometre of the Ottawa 17 km Challenge, which includes the Ottawa 2K, Ottawa 5K, and Ottawa 10K presented by Otto’s Ottawa. But thanks to overwhelming support, she quickly surpassed that milestone and has now set her sights on raising $1,700 for The Ottawa Hospital Foundation. “I chose to fundraise for The Ottawa Hospital as a way of showing my appreciation to the staff and volunteers,” she says. “There are so many things to worry about while navigating cancer, but I never had to worry about the quality of care I was receiving. I’m grateful to have access to this calibre of healthcare and am proud to be able to support their work.”

 The Psychosocial Oncology Program was another great support for Manning’s recovery. She emphasizes how the program’s social workers and physical rehabilitation team played a crucial role while being treated at The Ottawa Hospital.

Spreading Awareness and Inspiring Others

Through her experience, Manning hopes to raise awareness about early detection and cancer research. “A friend had breast cancer a few years ago, and I credit her advocacy about breast health for being the reason I found a lump and made an appointment,” she says. “I encourage everyone to be familiar with their body and to take it seriously if something changes.”  

In Ontario, people aged 40 and over can now get an OHIP-covered mammogram without a referral, a critical step in ensuring more people have access to early detection.

Supporting the Ottawa Hospital Foundation on Race Day 

As race day approaches, Manning’s goal is simple: to have fun and keep moving toward the finish line. “I’m less focused on a particular time and more focused on enjoying the experience. Running has become a key component of my recovery, and I look forward to continuing to improve both on and off the race course.” 

As a member of the Otto’s Ottawa Power Crew, a dedicated group of runners and walkers who share training experiences, fundraising tips, and excitement for Run Ottawa events, she’s been sharing her journey on Instagram, encouraging others to sign up for Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend and showing that running is for everyone.

With her determination, the support of the running community, and a powerful cause driving her forward, Manning is set to make a lasting impact, one step at a time.

Support Manning’s fundraising efforts for The Ottawa Hospital Foundation, and if you’re looking for a welcoming running group, consider joining Dominion City Run Club on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. All abilities and paces are welcome!