The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Michelle Belfry experienced several feelings during the Weekend To End Breast Cancer event held in Winnipeg from June 9 to 11. "The event was really spectacular," Belfry said. "It was a very moving and emotional time." The Flin Flon resident felt very privileged to be part of the opening and closing ceremonies. She listened to many stories, which she said was heart wrenching. The mother of two was also touched by the people going through treatment who participated, as it may be too late for some of them. "There was a lot of very courageous people," she said, as it's something she will cherish the rest of her life. "I have never been part of such a powerful event," Belfry added. During the walk she had the support of her husband, John, who was also touched by everything. While being coach of a special Olympics team was a great experience for him, John said that the Winnipeg weekend gave him the biggest lift. "The biggest thing I saw was courage and support," he said. "Many walkers suffered through cancer and were getting treatment." For John, watching his wife participate was difficult. "I was proud of her," he said, full of emotion. Michelle said people were cheering others on. During the walk they went through residential areas, where residents placed ribbons and posters on trees. "It was just a heartwarming and heartwrenching experience for me," she added. When it came to walking the 60-km event, Michelle felt pretty good physically. She said she didn't have the training time others did, but she did what she could to get in shape. "I felt it was a real challenge physically and mentally," she explained. "I really enjoyed the walk. The weather was good." Michelle has now raised $19,500 as some of the donations were not tallied yet. People can still donate money until Dec. 31. "I'm really pleased with the fundraising and how people were generous," she said.
