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Wounded Warrior Run coming through Comox Valley

Runners and crew scheduled to arrive in the Comox Valley Feb. 25

Erin Haluschak

Record staff

 

Six runners, 600 kilometers.

That’s who, with a support team of 10 people, will tackle Vancouver Island beginning Feb. 22 as part of the Island chapter of the Wounded Warrior Run B.C.

“The goal is not to raise money … but to connect and raise awareness of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). We want to tell people it’s okay to ask for help,” said Jeff Kibble, public relation officer with the run.

Beginning in Port Hardy, the runners will tackle the length of Vancouver Island, stopping in communities and legions to talk about their experiences and connect with other veterans.

Kibble added PTSD may not be visible, but has taken a toll on veterans of all ages, in addition to first responders.

The runners and crew are set to arrive in the Comox Valley Feb. 25 around 2 p.m. near Mission Hill, and will be met by the fire department.

They will work their way to the 888 (Komox) Wing RCAF for 3 p.m. for a reception.

Earlier in the day, the team is invited for a reception at the Oyster River Fire Department.

The runners are primarily military members, with the exception of Bernice Smith, a First Nations runner who visited the Comox Valley a few years ago for a stop as part of the Heliset Hále Marathon, a 535 km run across Vancouver Island to raise awareness for suicide prevention.

The run is scheduled to wrap up Feb. 28 in Victoria.

For more information, visit woundedwarriorrunbc.com