Since June, local 12-year-old Brysen Howe has been fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society. In August, it will culminate in a 184-kilometre walk from Grande Prairie to Grande Cache.
Brysen’s mother Tamara says this cause is one that hits home to her and Brysen.
“Back in 2011, my grandpa was diagnosed with cancer and Brysen was just that inquisitive child that always wanted to kind of fix or help or do whatever he could. Then then the following year we took a trip to visit my other grandparents and had found out that they too had cancer.”
Since the age of four Brysen, has raised over $8,000 by singing at the mall, hosting bottle drives, selling teddy bears, and asking for donations instead of birthday presents. Through fundraising for this event, the total raised for the society is sitting at over $10,000.
In preparation for what his mom estimates will be a five-day walk, she says he’s been walking and riding his bike every day.
“He’s always been in sports and activities so his spring hockey has just ended, so now he’s going to start with the treadmill, he’s out on his bike constantly, and he’s going to do some serious walking and running and lots of cardio.”
Brysen will continue to fundraise throughout the months of July and August. People are able to donate through the Canadian Cancer Society’s website. The family is aiming to leave the city on either August 26th or 27th.