My name is Ryan Rasmussen and I help people with cancer looking for a holistic approach to treatment. I support the financial strain of as much of these treatments as possible through my fundraiser, The CoCo Run.
The CoCo Run started four years ago after watching my sister, Nicole, lose her battle with colon cancer. Before she passed, she talked about trying a holistic approach to her treatment. Yet she couldn’t afford the added expense—the disease and side-effects of previous treatment made it impossible for her to continue working.
After witnessing what Nicole endured every day for months, I wanted to find a way to help people fight cancer. So, I decided to raise money for treatment by running the nearly 205 km distance from Campbell River to Duncan. At the time of my plan, I’d only been running for a few months—and the farthest distance I’d run was 10 km (which felt like a challenge).
After the success of the first CoCo Run, I was determined to make it an annual event. This past summer marked the third run, and, since its inception, has raised $13,200. With the support of local businesses, we’ve added an online auction to our fundraising efforts. All of this has paid for essential cancer treatments, whether to fight the cancer directly or to improve the quality of life of those fighting the battle.
Last year we teamed up with Integrated Health Clinic in White Rock BC and offered cancer patients a 50 per cent off treatment day—using the total amount of money previously raised. We were able to help everyone getting treatment that day and plan to do the same thing in early 2024.
The future of the CoCo Run
The future of The CoCo Run includes more fundraising streams that generate year-round funds. One idea is to put on a trail running race—a race for everyone whether you’re just starting or a well-seasoned long-distance runner.
I plan to take The CoCo Run across Canada and look forward to coming up with new ways to help the families and friends of people fighting cancer. It doesn’t affect just those with cancer—it has a profound impact on those who love them.
For more information about the CoCo Run and ways to donate, please visit thecocorun.ca.
