A powerful show of determination and community unfolded on Friday, Oct 17, as Captain Aaron Niles completed the Ruck for a Cure march, walking 16.4 km from CFB Trenton to the Dr. Douglas A. MacIntosh Cancer Clinic at Belleville General Hospital.
Carrying a 30-pound ruck, Niles’ journey symbolized the heavy burden cancer places on patients and families, and honoured his younger brother, Sean, who continues his courageous fight against the disease.
The march took approximately 3.5 hours, during which Niles was joined by his colleague, Reese Gaboy, and his nephew. At the finish line, BGHF staff, Quinte Health staff, volunteers, and family members – including Sean – gathered to cheer him on, offering a heartfelt welcome to the clinic.
Reflecting on the experience, Niles shared, “This march is about more than the distance or the weight I carry; it’s about standing with families like mine who are facing cancer,”
“The support from the community today, from every cheer and donation, reminds me that no one should have to face this journey alone.”
To date, the event has raised $2,500 for the Dr. Douglas A. MacIntosh Cancer Clinic, helping to provide advanced, compassionate cancer care close to home.
Amanda Grydziukszko of the Belleville General Hospital noted, “Aaron’s courage and dedication today were inspiring to witness. This event shows what our community can achieve when we come together, raising both funds and hope for patients and families navigating cancer.”
Ruck for a Cure, which began as a personal mission for Niles, has grown into a meaningful initiative, inspiring donors, volunteers, and community members to rally together in support of local cancer care.
Every step, every cheer, and every donation contributes to helping patients and families in the Quinte region.
For more information about Ruck for a Cure or to support the event, visit https://bghf.ca/ruck-for-a-cure/.
(HAILEY MACDONALD)
