$5.1 million raised in 9 years through the BC Cancer Foundation's annual Underwear Affair

9^th annual race draws hundreds of British Columbians to run, walk and complete challenges in their underwear through downtown Vancouver in support of cutting-edge cancer research and enhancements to care at The BC Cancer Agency.

VANCOUVER, July 5, 2014 /CNW/ - British Columbians raised $5.1 million in nine years through the BC Cancer Foundations' annual Underwear Affair in Vancouver.  Funds raised support leading-edge cancer research and enhancements to care at the BC Cancer Agency for cancers which occur below the waist.  Each year hundreds of participants race, walk and complete challenges through downtown Vancouver wearing underwear and outrageous costumes.

"A huge thank you to all participants, volunteers and donors who helped make our 9^th annual Underwear Affair a success," said Erik Dierks, Vice President of Development, BC Cancer Foundation.

"This year, 37 per cent of all diagnosed cancers in British Columbia are those which occur below-the-belt, such as prostate, colorectal, testicular, cervical and ovarian. The $5.1 million raised over the last nine years continues to support cutting-edge research programs and breakthrough discoveries which include, a shift in the surgical paradigm for ovarian cancer prevention and discoveries for colorectal and prostate cancers that may lead to new prevention strategies and treatment," Dierks added.

The 2014 Underwear Affair took place at the Cambie Street Bridge Lot in Vancouver and participants chose to complete a chip-timed 10 km race, 5 km walk or series of challenges called "The Booty Hunt."  Local residents gathered along the route at public cheer stations and the event wrapped up with an after-party, where participants enjoyed hot meals, beverages, music and an evening of dancing.

"I participated in the Underwear Affair last year, but this year I am back and more dedicated than ever as my wife Ana has been diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer," said North Vancouver resident Victor Ulanday. 

"Ana was doing very well until January, when she experienced a lot of pain and then had to undergo three surgeries this past May. The cancer moved to her spine and continues to spread, with Ana recently losing mobility in her legs. Despite this, she continues with courage and grace, her spirits are high and the confidence that she will be better in time to enjoy the summer with our two young children.  We're all in this together and when we kick cancers "down there" to the curb, everyone wins," Ulanday added.

Funds raised over the last nine years of the event also support advancements and discoveries at The BC Cancer Agency which help improve early detection, prevention and treatment so more cancer patients here in British Columbia have better outcomes from their cancer diagnoses.

Event organizers announced the 2015 Underwear Affair will take place on July 11^th and encourage people of all athletic abilities to register.

"We hope everyone in British Columbia will join us next year, as we celebrate a milestone 10 years of the BC Cancer Foundation's Underwear Affair. Register now at www.uncoverthecure.org or call [phone]," added Dierks.

To register, donate or receive information about the 2014 Underwear Affair, visit www.uncoverthecure.org or call [phone].

ABOUT THE BC CANCER FOUNDATION - CLICK HERE - The BC Cancer Foundation is the bridge that connects philanthropic support and research breakthroughs in cancer knowledge.  As the fundraising partner of the BC Cancer Agency and the largest funder of cancer research in this province, we enable donors to make contributions to leading-edge research that has a direct impact on improvements to cancer care for patients in British Columbia.  We fund with the goal of finding solutions.  Visit www.bccancerfoundation.com to make a donation or to learn how you can make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

ABOUT THE BC CANCER AGENCY - The BC Cancer Agency, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer.  It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care.  For more information, visit www.bccancer.ca.

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SOURCE: BC Cancer Foundation

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