PEI

'There are survivors and we're strong': Run for the Cure is Sunday

The honorary chair of this year's Run for the Cure in Charlottetown is urging Island women to take charge of their health.

This year's Run for the Cure in Charlottetown is Sunday at 2 p.m.

Participants from the 2015 Run for the Cure celebrate that year's fundraising efforts. (Sara Fraser/CBC)

The honorary chair of this year's Run for the Cure in Charlottetown is urging Island women to take charge of their health.

Simone Cormier has just completed treatment for breast cancer that was diagnosed in January. She had noticed a small change in one breast and brought it to the attention of her doctor.

She told CBC Radio's Island Morning that although she was preparing herself for the worst the diagnosis came as a shock.

Charlottetown's honorary Run for the Cure chair Simone Cormier (right) poses with co-chair Jenna Bysterveldt in the Island Morning studio. (Matt Rainnie/CBC)

"The tears flowed but I did hear, through those tears, my doctor say, 'It was detected early and the prognosis is good,'" said Cormier.

Cormier said her story underlines the importance of seeking a diagnosis quickly if you suspect a problem.

"A change is a change," she said. "Don't wait until there's something of great proportion."

Still time to register

After her experience of the last nine months, Cormier said being at the Run for the Cure Sunday will have a special significance.

"It's validation that I survived this. That there are survivors and we're strong."

The Run for the Cure will begin with opening ceremonies at 1:45 p.m. at Confederation Landing Park. The run itself starts at 2 p.m.

It is still not too late to register for the run, sign up as a volunteer, or donate.

With files from Island Morning