August 20, 2024

The Return of A Run for Chris Raises Over $41,500 for Youth Mental Health & Addictions Care

On Sunday, August 18^th, over 400 participants and more than 14 sponsors came together for the third edition of A Run for Chris! The event honours the memory of Chris Owens.  

Chris was a runner from the time he knew how to walk. Through every phase of his life, no matter how challenging, dark, or painful, he would pick himself up, get outside and run as far as he possibly could. Living in constant uncertainty, running was his consistent therapy that never wavered.  

On August 20th, 2021, at the age of 26, Chris lost his battle with mental health and addiction. But his commitment to his fight, the vulnerability he showed to others and the obstacles he overcame in coming out about his sexuality have left a lasting impact on our community.  

Every year since his passing, Chris’ sister, Michelle Owens, and his best friend, Megan Roti have planned A Run for Chris. Each year, hundreds of people gather at Joe Sams Leisure Park (one of Chris’ favourite running spots) to honour his memory and raise funds to help others who may be living with mental health or substance use concerns 

This year, through sponsorships, registration fees and generous donations, more than $41,500 was raised in support of mental health and addiction care at St. Joe’s Youth Wellness Centre (YWC).  

The YWC provides a safe and compassionate environment for youth in our community to receive expert care for mental health and substance use concerns. The YWC also offers drop-in programs for peer support and to engage youth in activities that give them a positive, fulfilling outlet – like writing poetry, taking part in a drop-in art class, or joining a running group – some of whom event chose to take part in A Run for Chris!  

At the run, YWC’s Program Manager, Taylor Hatchard shared “Recovery isn’t just about seeking treatment, it’s about building a life you love, building community, and being yourself. I can tell that that’s something this group knows, too. And we’re so grateful that A Run for Chris has chosen to support the work we do.” 

In remembrance of Chris’ bright and loving spirit, the Valeri family had a rainbow-hued memorial bench bearing Chris’ name installed at Joe Sams Leisure Park which was unveiled at the event. Next time you visit the park, we encourage you to take a moment, sit on the bench, take in the nature that surrounds you, and remember Chris’ story.  

 “It means more than I have words for,” shared Chris’ sister Michelle as she reflected on the day’s events. “We have raised over $100,000 in three years for youth mental health and addictions resources and awareness. We have so many community members and sponsors who want to be a part of it. I think this is a lot bigger than me, my family and Chris now, which is overwhelming in a really special way.” 

“The number of supporters this event attracts is a testament to how many lives Chris Owens touched over the years, as well as a reminder of how many of us have a friend, a family member, a loved one, a co-worker or a neighbour who has been affected by mental illness, addiction and suicide, too,” said Adam Tillich, who helped Megan and Michelle to plan this year’s event and works as the Manager of Special Events & Community Partnerships at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation.