The 2nd annual Cruise and Walk for a Cure to raise donations for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) of Saskatchewan and also raise awareness for type 1 diabetes will be taking place this Saturday, June 25th.
The walk will begin at the Credit Union Iplex at 11:00 am and the cruise will leave from there at 1:00 pm
The event is being coordinated by Jelena Funk and Vince Sebo.
Funk details how the event began.
"We got involved with doing motorcycle rides for good causes whether it be prostate cancer, breast cancer, veterans you name it. We kind of got into that and really found a lot of joy in doing that and feeling really good about what we are doing and we thought we would like to start something of our own in Swift Current."
In addition, Funk says they chose the JDRF and type 1 diabetes because of a personal connection as it runs in her family. Funk's younger brother was diagnosed at the age of four and she says she watched him go through school and life and saw the struggles he faced and the lack of support and education and so she wants to raise awareness to help other children with their journey.
Through the Cruise and Walk for a Cure event, Funk says they have met other children who have inspired them and Funk and Sebo say they want to make sure to let these children know that they are not alone and there are others around that can help and understand and provide them with the information of where to go to get help if they need it.
Sebo provides further details on the purpose behind the event.
"We want to raise awareness for type 1 diabetes and we would love for families and children to get involved and of course, for people to join us on our cruise around south west Saskatchewan."
Funk says the walk will last 30-45 minutes and the cruise will be traveling to Gull Lake for lunch at the Last Chance Bar and Grill and then eventually head to Cadillac for supper at the Range Line Tavern.
The event has a number of sponsors this year who have donated various prizes so Funk says they will also be doing a raffle.
Although there is no overall goal of funds to be raised, Funk says last year's event raised $1400 so anything raised above that they will be happy with.
Residents can register ahead of time by visiting the cruise for a cure sw Facebook page or registration will also be possible on the day of the event.