This February, Enliven Centre for Well-Being in Cancer is hosting two major events in honour of everyone we know in Muskoka with a Cancer experience.
Enliven was co-founded by Joanne McLean who saw the need for a centre dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their caregivers and healthcare providers. And so, as a result of her dedication and leadership, the volunteer-based, non-profit, self-care organization “Enliven” launched in June 2017.
McLean lost her four-year battle with cancer in July 2018, but her legacy lives on through the Enliven centre. “The biggest thing that she (Jo) wanted was for people to feel they could go somewhere and feel safe, and not alone,” said Allie Chisholm-Smith, fellow co-founder of Enliven.
And so, on Sunday, February 2nd there will be a fabulous outdoor event for all ages. Named the “Jo”- Athlon in honour of Joanne, the goal of the event is to get families outside enjoying a Muskoka winter day and to gather pledges in honour of someone they know with cancer. The event will be taking place at Tawingo, 1844 Ravenscliffe Road, Huntsville from 12 to 3 p.m.
Participants will choose to participate in a selection of activities including: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, kick sledding, broomball, a bbq lunch, and snowman building while enjoying a campfire, lunch, smores and hot chocolate. Prizes will be awarded to all those who gather 50$+ in pledges.
Camp Tawingo has groomed trails and everyone is welcome to come out and try a new activity. The event is open to all ages and people of all skill levels. To register go to www.enlivenmuskoka.ca/jo-athlon.html
Also, what’s a celebration without a party? On Wednesday, Feb 4th Enliven will host a World Cancer Day Gala at Canvas Brewery Co. (12 John St. Huntsville.)
This event will offer live entertainment featuring Christina Hutt, an art auction showcasing the works of incredible Muskoka artists and an array of delicious appetizers. The event runs from 7-10 p.m. and tickets are $50 per person. Tickets can be purchased through the Enliven website enlivenmuskoka.ca/gala2020 or by calling 705 787-5459. Dress will be fun-formal (think bowties and party wear), so join Enliven for a great night out while honouring someone in your circle with a cancer experience.
Enliven would like to thank all the sponsors for their generous support of the Gala and the Jo-Athlon and all the volunteers who make these events possible. With your help we continue to offer no-cost programs, services, and support to every Muskokan touched by cancer.