A grassroots charity event organized by Prince of Wales Secondary School students in Vancouver raised more than $14,000 for families who have children battling cancer.
The event, a run through the city's Jericho beach, was called Walk for Walker in honour of a Grade 11 student at Prince of Wales.
Alex Walker was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in January. The months that followed were at test of strength for her family, who grew closer as she fought the disease.
"I think we've all realized how important it is to have each other, and have our friends around us," Walker said.
Her best friend Liza Kalb says when she learned about Walker's struggle, she wanted to help out. The idea to organize a charity run came naturally.
"I thought I could combine my passion for running and my desire to help my friend," she said.
And her efforts paid off, and more than 200 people signed up for the event. The money they raised will go to the oncology ward at the BC Children's Hospital and the BC Childhood Cancer Parents Association, which helps families with costs not covered by provincial healthcare.
"Forty-five per cent of the kids treated are from out of town, so the families don't get reimbursed for their travelling expenses, their parking, their travelling. All of that comes out of their own pockets," the BCCCPA's Dave Dunbar said.
Walker gave a heartfelt thanks to those who stood by her as she underwent chemotherapy, to the people "who made me laugh, catered to me, and who just sat there in silence because they knew I needed them there."
"It's been hard obviously, but I'm in remission now," she said.
It was a small event with a big impact: proving you're never too young to be an inspiration.
For more information on the BCCCPA visit the website.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Norma Reid
