Sprinting for Brains

More than a decade ago my 680 News colleague’s little brother David died from a brain tumour at the age of 19.

My co-worker Richard and his family started planning a Spring Sprint on their home turf of Brampton in support of the Brain Tumour Foundation,  a terrific non-profit organization that helps families affected by brain tumours.  David lost his fight shortly before the first Sprint so since that inaugural event it’s been called The David Bloom Memorial Spring Sprint.  I was proud to be their MC for the first couple of years and to take part in the years since either by doing the walk or making a donation.

After 12 years the Blooms have decided to hand the event’s reins to someone else. They’re passing the torch.  So they asked me to come this year as honorary chair and I was proud to do so.   CITY-TV’s Kevin Frankish was the MC.

The day raised $100,000 through pledges and a live and silent auction.  They had some excellent items including modern art and front row seats for a Blue Jays game.  I still have my fingers crossed that I won a beautiful sculpture at the silent auction.  It was my job to get on the megaphone and officially start the runners and walkers on their way around Professor’s Lake.

The patriarch of the Bloom family, Lawrie, presented me with a plaque.  To date the Blooms’ efforts have raised $1.4 million.  That helps fund research, support and information for families dealing with brain tumours.

The Brain Tumour Foundation is located here in London and I’ve gotten to know the people behind it. Executive Director Susan Marshall, who also lost a son to a brain tumour, was there yesterday to show her support.   When you approach the reception desk at the Foundation’s office there’s a beautiful black-and-white photo of David on the wall.  That photo and others of those who have succumbed to or are living with brain tumours remind them of why they do what they do.  I’d just like to say thank you to the Bloom family for turning their unimaginable grief into something so generous that we hope will prevent other families from losing a cherished member.