Fort la Reine School Grade 1 teacher Diane Wing brings her inspiring 500-kilometer run across Manitoba directly to her community, and by the time of this article's publication, has already made it all the way through to the other side of the city of Winnipeg, around the Deacon's corner region.
For context, here's a map showing a general idea of her journey so far (blue dots):
On her fifth day of the ten-day journey, Wing, accompanied by her support team, distributed freezies to approximately thirty cheering children and supporters who gathered to encourage her ambitious effort, raising funds and awareness for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).
The enthusiastic welcome at Fort la Reine school here in Portage provided a boost during the physically demanding challenge.
Motivation through celebration and tragedy
Wing finds deep motivation in her cause, driven by a personal connection to mental health struggles. She explains the run’s significance, linking it to a milestone and a profound loss.
"I’m turning 50 this year, so the plan was to run across Manitoba and do 50 kilometres a day for 10 days, to celebrate my birthday," Wing shares. "I wanted to do it for charity, and that’s why we team up with the Canadian Mental Health Association."
Her commitment stems from personal tragedy, sharing, "In 2012, my husband lost his life to suicide. So it's meaningful for us. That's kind of why we did it. I've seen a lot of people suffering. So we just did it for mental health and suicide prevention."
Safety coordinator and running mate provides crucial support
Ensuring Wing’s safety and well-being throughout the gruelling trek is Peter Pazerniuk, who describes himself as the "safety and logistics coordinator" for the run.
A seasoned marathoner, Pazerniuk joined the endeavour, recognizing the immense physical and mental challenge involved in running the equivalent of a marathon-plus daily.
"It’s a little bit of a challenge," Pazerniuk admits. "It’s a you know, because you’re running 50 kilometres a day is a challenge in itself. It’s like running a marathon a day, a little bit more than a marathon a day, and even if you’re doing a slower pace. It still makes you a little bit sore at the end of the day."
He emphasizes the importance of constant self-assessment, noting, "I have to make sure. Did I eat enough calories? Do I feel well hydrated? So, doing those self-awareness checks, the physical checks to make sure that you’re ready to run the next day. It’s a little bit of a mental challenge."
Related stories:
- Drive-in fundraiser returns to support PAWS
- Portage’s Andrew Cherkas walking 500 kilometres in support of mental health
Community spirit fuels the journey
Despite the physical hardships – including a fall on the first day, intense heat, and smoky conditions – Wing is profoundly moved by the support encountered along the route and online. The stop at Fort la Reine, complete with freezies and cheers, was capped off with supporters signing a notebook that has been carried with Wing throughout her journey so far.
"It’s been good. Everybody’s been so good, like just online and just, you know, like just all the comments and all the just positive 'You can do it' kind of things. It really helps," Wing says, reflecting on the journey so far.
She adds, "I’m just blown away by how supportive and kind people have been, and listening to people’s stories, because a lot of people are sharing their stories and stuff. It’s been awesome."
As she continues her run across the province, Wing carries a simple, powerful message for everyone following her journey.
"Just to make sure that you’re being kind to everyone because you never know the battles that they’re going through," she says, adding, "If you need help, try and reach out, there are a lot of people out there that will support you."
Pazerniuk echoes the importance of well-being, advocating for exercise as he notes, "A little bit of exercise, I think that’s sometimes the key. A little bit of exercise can’t hurt, and I’d recommend it for everybody."
Donations can be made online at www.cmhaacrossmb.ca/donate/#donate_form, by selecting the Diane Wing – Run Across Manitoba – 50th Birthday option, and you can get further updates by checking CMHA's page on Facebook.
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