Inspiring the community to run with her

Meet the Marathoners Gone Viral! This is a team of more than 100 runners joining cancer survivor and tri-athlete, Sindy Hooper to Run for a Reason during Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend this May. The goal: to raise $50,000 to fund Dr. John Bell’s oncolytic virus research at The Ottawa Hospital.

Shortly after turning 50 almost two years ago, Sindy was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. In the best shape of her life – she was stunned – she had no family history of cancer and none of the risk factors for the disease. She is defying the odds of an average 6 month survival rate.

So far, there are 108 runners committed and Marathoners gone viral is looking to recruit as many fundraisers as possible.

“None of us are immune to cancer. We should all be very interested in the research Dr. John Bell is pioneering at The Ottawa Hospital,” Sindy says. “He’s researching and developing viruses that kill cancer. These viruses could replace chemotherapy and be more effective, with substantially fewer side effects. Most importantly, the viruses he’s developing have been shown to kill even chemo resistant cancer tumors like pancreatic cancer, and many others.”

There’s no better time than today to make a difference. Join the Marathoners Gone Viral and support cancer research at The Ottawa Hospital.

You can also help the team fundraise by attending An evening with Ottawa’s fab four! This March 7 event will feature four of Ottawa’s finest athletes who will inspire you, motivate you and tell you how to push your limits and be proud of your accomplishment come race day.

Click here to register and find out more about the event or email Sindy at sindyhoop@gmail.com