Second Grey 5K hosted as first responders’ edition, raises $18,790 for childhood cancer research

by Essex Free Press Staff

Second Grey 5K hosted as first responders’ edition raises $18790 for childhood

When 12-year-old Jaida Chartier was undergoing treatments for brain cancer, her family was overwhelmed with the support received from not only the community, but from local first responder groups.

  Jaida bravely fought Diffuse Midline Glioma with H3K27 mutation Brain Cancer for 14-months before peacefully passing away July 31, 2024. Her family began the Grey 5K last year as an annual fundraiser held as part of a promise they would continue to pay it forward.

  So, when Dad, Brandon Chartier – a local Firefighter, and Mom, Sarah  Smallman Chartier began planning the second annual event, they wanted to give a little nod to those first responders who showed this family so much support in their time of need. Those first responder groups hosted garage sales and car washes to raise funds in their honour.

  On Saturday, May 30, the 2nd annual Grey 5K was hosted starting at the entrance of the Amherstburg-Essex Greenway, near Sadlers’ Nature Park. From the starting line, over 120 participants walked, wheeled, or ran the 5km trek down the greenway. That was a similar number of participants rostered as the previous year.

  He was pleased to welcome representatives from Essex Fire & Rescue, Tecumseh Fire & Rescue, Essex-Windsor EMS, Correctional Services Canada, RCMP, Windsor Police, and others.

  “The response has been great,” Brandon said.  

  The event was hosted in conjunction with Walkers & Runners Around the County of Essex (WRACE).

  This 5K race raises money to fund Childhood Cancer research. Brandon was thrilled to announce that this year’s efforts raised $18,790, exceeding last year’s inaugural edition by over $3000.

  The proceeds will be forwarded to the C17 Research Network and Childhood Cancer Canada to find better treatment methods for pediatric cancer.

  Through the Jaida Chartier Foundation, they are sponsoring a research grant, a two-year commitment with a minimum contribution of $30,000. They are in their first-year of this commitment currently.

  “We continue to look for research grants that we can fund and carry on the research to find a cure,” Brandon said, adding they are striving to help find better treatment methods.

  “We were told to go make memories with our daughter, that there is no cure. She had less than a one-percent survival rate. We don’t want another family to be told that.”

  Brandon noted the month of May is a significant month to host the event for two special reasons: it commemorates Brain Tumour Awareness Month – symbolized by a grey ribbon. And, on May 31, 2023, Jaida's battle began when she was airlifted from Windsor Regional Hospital-Ouellette Campus to London Children's Hospital.

  “We are just here to continue to carry on Jaida’s name and legacy, and continue to fight for children still fighting,” Brandon said at the finish line, waiting for the racers to return.  

  Being able to continue on the Grey 5K in its second year was an amazing achievement. “It’s great that we are able to carry on Jaida’s name and continue her spirit,” Brandon said.  

  Chartier and the Essex Firemen's Association are planning to host the inaugural “Guardians of the Green Golf Tournament” at Belleview Golf Course on June 27. Those wanting to get involved are urged to sign-up.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

“We are just hoping to get as many people out as we can and continue the cause,” he said.

  To learn more, log onto the Jaida Chartier Foundation social media page.