prairie women on snowmobiles mission 2003 raises 133000 for breast cancer research
Amsnow
Prairie Women on Snowmobiles completed their Mission 2003 on Friday, January 31st by presenting the Canadian Cancer Society with $133,000 for breast cancer research. Ten women in Manitoba and Saskatchewan began the journey on Friday, January 24th traveling across their respected provinces 1600 kms in 8 days ending in Moosomin, Saskatchewan exhausted both physically and mentally.
Mission 2003 is the third annual ride for Prairie Women on Snowmobiles, which originated in Saskatchewan, and with the newly formed Manitoba Chapter joining in this year's Mission is sure to be another success. Since 2001, the Prairie Women on Snowmobiles have raised in excess of $333,000.
Manitoba riders who completed Mission 2003 included: Patti Bertsch (Landmark), Carla Wilson (Gimli), Andrea Hrushka (Winnipeg), Margaret Paradis (Thompson), Shirley Stone (Winnipeg), Mona Peloquin (Ste. Pierre), Tamara Maniel (Winnipeg), Jennifer Elliott (Brunkild) and Gayle Mager (Winnipeg). The journey could not be possible without the backing of the support vehicle drivers who made sure the snowmobiles were maintained and fueled up, as well as keeping track of them along the journey, special thanks to Ray Pilotte (Ste. Pierre), Yves Roy (Ste. Pierre), Ernie Paquette (Oakbank), and Doug Mager (Winnipeg).
The riders live in all areas of Manitoba and come from all walks of life and challenged themselves with the physical feat of completing this Manitoba's first 1600 km all women's journey, increasing public awareness of the impact breast cancer continues to have in the lives of Canadians and raising charitable funds.
Aside from the featured women riders, the Mission was joined by snowmobile clubs and individuals who rode along for the cause. The PWOS cavalcade traveled across the province for a total of 1660 kms (996 miles) on an intense 8 day schedule stopping in communities collecting donations.
"We are hoping to raise awareness and as much money as we can for breast cancer research," said coordinator Gayle Mager. "Most of us have either dealt with breast cancer or have had someone in our family affected by it. It's a cause that's near and dear to us."
"The support for the communities was outstanding and the people waving and honking their horns as they drove by gave everyone a boost," said rider Andrea Hrushka.
Rider Jennifer Elliott commented, "It's the generosity of the people in the communities and made our Mission a success and will help provide money for research to one day eradicate this horrible disease."
"Too many of us know someone who has battled or is battling this disease. Raising the much needed funds for research is our way of showing our support for a worthy cause," said rider Patti Bertsch.
The Prairie Women on Snowmobile would like to thank all the support they received from the communities along their journey, the friendships, camaraderie and support will not be forgotten.
Donations are still being accepted on line at www.prairiewomen.com or by calling the Canadian Cancer Society at 888/857-6658 (ask for Carol). A social gathering will be held later this month to thank the sponsors and celebrate their success, anyone wishing to attend please contact 204/233-5268 for details.