Several PRH Foundation volunteers donned superhero costumes and handed out capes to athletes who
completed the themed 2k and medals to the timed 5k finishers. From left they are, Kayla Zadow, Trisha
Robinson, Chris Ballman, Connie Weber and Tammy Blackmore.

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Pembroke – Nearly 500 runners took to the streets of Pembroke recently along with dozens of superheroes paying homage to the real-world heroes who keep the local healthcare facility operating.

The Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH) Foundation’s fourth annual Heroes Run for Healthcare raised a total of $57,507, over $15,000 more than last year’s run which saw $41,337 in donations. It’s come a long way since hosting 50 participants in its first year.

PRH President and CEO Sabine Mersmann said the fully-volunteer run event is near and dear to her heart.

“I love this event,” she said. “You all coming out, showing the community what this is all about. The wellness and helping your hospital. This is incredible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Event emcee, Foundation Executive Director Roger Martin, told the hundreds in the audience the occasion wouldn’t be possible without support from so many volunteers and generous sponsors. He reminded the crowd of the fundraiser’s importance to the local community.

“This allows us to buy much-needed equipment that we may not have the funds to buy otherwise. Because it makes a difference for every child here, every brother, sister, mother, father or cousin.”

He gave the mic to Planning Committee Chair Scott Coombes, who thanked participants and expressed his gratitude for those joining in the big day.

“On behalf of the committee, we want to pass on a big thank you to everyone who came out to support the local hospital.”

Mr. Coombes introduced Tammy Blackmore of the Pembroke Fitness Centre, who led the audience through a round of warm-up exercises before the run.

Top Fundraisers

Following the races, Mr. Martin gave special shoutouts to the top fundraisers before revealing the category winners. He first thanked Team Alterna, who donated nearly $3,000. The Pacemakers raised $2,464 and Cardiovert came in with $2,317.

Mr. Martin then put the spotlight on the top fundraising team, Algonquin College, who contributed in memory of their former Interim Dean, the late Jamie Bramburger. The group raised an incredible $5,380.

He moved on to the top individual fundraiser, who Mr. Martin said was a clear winner. Brent Dupuis raised over $3,000 and it was the fourth year in a row he was top fundraiser. Over 242 kids participated in the 2K Superhero run, sponsored by Bradley Law.

The 5K timed run, sponsored by MacEwen Petroleum, had 254 runners participate. Runners were given a participation medal when crossing the finish line that was sponsored by Bergeron Clifford Injury Lawyers.

Race Results

The run timing was sponsored by Dr. Christy Natsis & Associates and medals were given to runners in the following categories:

Male Results: 1 – 12 – 1st place – Henry Bursey; 13 – 24 – 1st place – Ethan De Jong; 25 – 34 – 1st place – Stuart Macpherson; 35 – 49 – 1st place – Cameron Dube; 50 – 64 – 1st place – Brian O’Malley; 65+ – 1st place – Ron Sauer.

Overall Male: 1st – Stuart Macpherson; 2nd – Sam Agnew; 3rd – Ethan De Jong.

Female Results: 1 – 12 – 1st place – Molly Liu; 13 – 24 – 1st place – Ryan Johnston; 25 – 34 – 1st place – Morgan Gallant-Miles; 35 – 49 – 1st place – Camille Audree Lefebvre; 50 – 64 – 1st place – Patricia Kim; 65+ – 1st place – Val Chafe.

Overall Female: 1st – Ryan Johnston; 2nd – Camille Audree Lefebvre; 3rd – Caitlin Cashubec.