‘Push For Your Tush’ race brings awareness to colorectal cancer
Photo courtesy of Michael Butterfield.
“Push For Your Tush” is Colorectal Cancer Canada’s (CCC) largest annual fundraising event, dedicated to reducing the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Canada. The event consists of a 5K and a 10K walk/run race and fosters a fun, family-friendly atmosphere where survivors are celebrated, those we’ve lost are honoured, and supportive communities come together.
Join Michael Butterfield, a proud UVic and Martlet alumnus, and fellow advocates on Sunday, July 7, at Clover Point Park to combat CRC through knowledge, awareness, and early detection.
CRC is the second leading cause of cancer death in Canada. About 26 Canadians die from the disease every day. While traditionally considered an older person’s disease, recent statistics reveal a troubling rise in incidence rates among younger adults. The American Cancer society reported that diagnoses in 2019 doubled in patients under age 55 compared to the number of cases in 1995.
As a CRC survivor who triumphed over the disease four years ago, Butterfield is on a mission to raise awareness and educate the community about this increasingly prevalent health threat. This year, Butterfield is bringing “Push For Your Tush” to Victoria for the first time.
“I decided I wanted to do something out of the fact I’m surviving by spreading the word,” says Butterfield. “You just have to be aware of what the symptoms are, and when you get the symptoms, don’t be embarrassed, and get help.”
“Donations are great but participation is better,” Butterfield adds. “Getting people out brings the issue into the spotlight and out of the shadows.”
Butterfield provided the promo code, PFYTVictoriaSpecial, for people to register for the event for free. Face painters, balloons, snacks, refreshments, and even live music will be available at the event based on pre-registered attendance. Butterfield hopes that more people join the fundraiser.
“I could have avoided this disease with more awareness,” Butterfield reflects. His journey underscores the critical importance of early detection, which can only be achieved by awareness of the disease. Awareness is the fundraiser’s and Butterfield’s ultimate goal.
The welcome and warm-up will start at 10:00 a.m., and the race will be inaugurated at 10:15 a.m. Registration is open now online — regular fees are $35 for individuals or $75 for families.
