Photo via Facebook @ptbobutterflyrun
The 10th annual Peterborough Butterfly Run drew its largest turnout to date this weekend, raising more than $97,000 to support families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss.
Held Sunday at Millennium Park, the event brought together more than 1,400 registered participants across three events: a one-kilometre memorial walk, a one-kilometre kids fun run and a five-kilometre run/walk.
Organizers say hundreds more attended to cheer on participants, making this year’s event the largest since the run began in 2017.
Presented by the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation in partnership with Partners In Pregnancy Clinic, the Peterborough Butterfly Run supports families and individuals who have experienced pregnancy loss, the loss of a child, or infertility.
Organizers say this year marked a record-setting turnout for the five-kilometre event alone, with 840 participants taking part.
Overall attendance was up nearly 25 per cent compared with previous years.
As of noon Monday, the event had raised more than $97,000, with donations still being counted.
Event co-chairs Ashley Weir and Kori Zwarych said proceeds continue to support bereavement services in the region, including the creation and distribution of more than 1,000 bereavement kits across the community.
Funds will also support the Compassionate Care Symposium at Peterborough Regional Health Centre in June, helping local clinicians strengthen perinatal bereavement care.
Organizers say additional funding will help expand bereavement retreats and ensure long-term support remains available for grieving families in the region.
