The Strathcona Standard

  Runners raising money to help Canadian veterans stopped in Campbell River this afternoon, after leaving Sayward this morning.

  The Wounded Warrior Run for BC is underway, with eight volunteers running 800 kilometres over eight days, from Port Hardy to Victoria. They are making 26 stops along the way. Campbell River is near the halfway point for distance travelled, but the team has nearly two dozen more stops to make before finishing in Victoria.

  The annual run is a fundraiser to help military and emergency services personnel who are struggling with physical and psychological trauma. The goal this year is to raise around $210,000 and the team has already raised more than 50% of that amount, thanks to pledges and donations. The team is made up of volunteers from around the Island who work or have worked in the military and emergency services (fire, police, ambulance services).

  All money raised by the annual event goes right back into BC communities. This year it will help fund programs including PTSD service dogs, counselling and support services for couples and spouses, and programs to help people deal with past traumas.

  Organizers and runners thanked the community for the warm welcome when they ran into town this afternoon, arriving at the Comfort Inn around 3 pm.

  After a short break the runners will gather at the Royal Canadian Legion downtown at 5 pm.

  Tomorrow they will head south, making stops in Oyster River and the Comox Valley.

  Anyone who wants to help out the runners can make a donation online through the official website.