Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope raises $100,000 in Calgary

Ovarian Cancer Canada's Walk of Hope drew more than 270 people Sunday morning for a 2.5-kilometre loop around North Glenmore Park, raising around $100,000 locally and bringing the national fundraising total to more than $1.3 million before the event even started.

Almost 3,000 Canadians receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis annually, yet there is no current screening test for the disease. That gap is why Erin Walker, the Calgary walk's chair, emphasized the organization's focus: "There's no current screening test for ovarian cancer, which is why this organization is so important for research and advocacy to governments to get support on this disease so we can help women."

The national fundraising goal is $1.5 million, with almost half of the organization's top fundraisers in Alberta. Premier Danielle Smith participated in the walk; her mother-in-law died from a late diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

Current research priorities include personalized treatment based on how individual tumors respond, ensuring patients receive the right medications without unnecessary side effects, and exploring AI in detection methods. In Alberta, the organization is collaborating with Dr. Kristen Black on a project to understand Indigenous communities' perspective on ovarian cancer genetic testing and prevention—work aimed at growing equitable access to prevention. Dr. Black gathered with elders on September 18.

"In Alberta, we're currently collaborating on a project with Dr. Kristen Black to better understand Indigenous communities' perspective on ovarian cancer genetic testing and prevention as part of our work to grow equitable access to ovarian cancer prevention," said Tania Vrionis, CEO of Ovarian Cancer Canada.

The province released its strategic plan for cancer in June, with goals to cut wait times in half over the next 10 years and focus on prevention, early detection, and improved patient experience. Premier Smith aims for Alberta to become a Canadian leader in cancer research and innovation, with more advanced therapies available and increased clinical trials. Last year, Siemens and the Alberta Cancer Foundation announced an $800 million multi-year agreement to replace equipment with AI tools for faster diagnosis—targeting detection within two hours rather than two weeks.