The seven walkers and two volunteers who took up the Chemin des Sanctuaires Challenge arrived at their destination on June 9, at the end of a 200-km walk. The group began their pilgrimage at the Shrine of Notre-Dame-du-Cap in Trois-Rivières on June 2 to pay homage to someone with cancer or to their own cancer experience.

For a week, these walkers travelled the most beautiful roads in Quebec, enjoying along the way rich and varied landscape, with fields, picturesque villages, and spectacular views.

The adventure of a lifetime
 

The Chemin des Sanctuaires Challenge, a Quebec version of the Camino de Santiago, is both a physical and emotional challenge, as Lucie Carignan, one of the participants in this edition, testifies:

"There were a few tears, it’s true, but it was an amazing adventure. This kind of challenge makes you appreciate life, without expecting anything in return or taking anything for granted. I was also fortunate to meet exceptional people, such as Jean-Marc, who at 73 years of age, and with only one lung, walked the entire 200 km. It's the kind of adventure you have to do at least once in your lifetime."

This year’s walk, the third edition of the fundraising event, raised nearly $7,000 for the Quebec Cancer Foundation and was deeply appreciated by all who took part in it.

The participants will keep an unforgettable memory of their adventure along the most beautiful trails in Quebec. Each one was affected differently by cancer yet shared the common desire to support all those who suffer from it.

"It was a gift for my 50th birthday, but also a gift for those I love who have been affected by cancer. They accompanied me along the way in their thoughts. I’m so lucky to have had the opportunity to lend my support to the Quebec Cancer Foundation by participating in this fundraiser. The Foundation provides real help to patients and their loved ones. People really need services like that” Lucie said.

The Foundation warmly thanks all seven walkers for their participation in this adventure, as well as the two volunteers, Odette Fortier and Aimé Dumas, who, for a second year in a row, tirelessly accompanied, mentored, cared for and supported the group every step of the way.