Local boutique training facility Studeo55 and Vancouver based charity FCancer (whose mission is to put an end to late stage cancer diagnosis) have something to celebrate this week. The pair joined forces on Sunday, May 1^st, at Mile 21 of the BMO Vancouver Marathon to inspire the runners. FCancer won $500 on behalf of Studeo55 for being the best, loudest and most inspirational cheer station on the course.

The prizes were awarded to the volunteer stations that showed the most spirit and excitement, and there was no doubt that Studeo55 and FCancer put together a winning team of more than 70 volunteers. Whether handing out water or yelling words of encouragement at the passing runners, the station crackled with infectious excitement.

After all of the excitement died down, one marathoner tweeted, …”Thanks to the @studeo55 crew for helping me through that dark moment of the marathon! I finished!!”

When asked why the station was so successful, organizer Andrea French responded that it was “because inspiring runners is not about being a runner: it is about fully living your experience, your strength, your hope”.

FCancer’s programs work hard to educate the public on the importance of early detection, stressing the fact that 90% of cancers are curable if caught in stage one. Though their main focus is early detection, they also encourage supporters to get out and get active, leading balanced and preventative lifestyles that include exercise and eating right. When they were approached by Studeo55 to partner up during the marathon, they knew it was the right fit.

FCancer Team member Heather McKenzie-Beck attended the event as a volunteer, and commented on the fact that it was “incredibly inspiring. Towards the end of the race, our team leader Andrea pointed out a cancer survivor who was rounding the bend at mile 21; it didn’t look easy, but she was running her heart out and proving to everyone that having had cancer did not dictate who she was. It was amazing.”

Overall, the morning was incredibly spirited and successful for both organizations, even before receiving the prize from BMO. Of all the volunteers at their station, only 2 had previously run a marathon; after the event was finished, organizer Andrea was inundated with requests from people who wanted to take on the challenge themselves.

FCancer Founder and President Yael Cohen remarked that she feels “so lucky to have found such a strong partner in Studeo55. The energy that their team brings is incredible; it made perfect sense for us to connect and help support and motivate the marathon runners, and subsequently, ourselves as well.”

Both FCancer and Studeo55 are grateful for the opportunity to have participated in such an inspirational experience, and look forward to teaming up again in the future.