The IWK 5K - In Memory of Jessica is a family friendly fun run/walk to help support the IWK Health Centre Foundation. Jennifer Manuel started organizing this event in 2010 in memory of her daughter Jessica, who passed away June 2008 at the IWK Neonatal Unit. Running made her feel "normal" again, and it gave her the strength to get through the day. She wanted to run in a race that she was passionate about, and was looking for a run for the IWK, or for a children's charity, but she couldn't find one locally... so she started her own.
"This event is our way to give back to the IWK for giving Jessica, her surviving twin sister Alyssa, and our family, along with many other Maritime families... the best possible care. Without the IWK staff, especially Dr. MacLeod, and the nurses on the 3rd and 7th floor, we never would have made it to 25 weeks, and may not have had the chance to meet either one of our girls. And thanks to Dr. Jangaard, and nurses Charlotte, Courtney, Sharla, Shelley, Tara and Paula, who cared for our girls in the NICU...giving us the one month with Jessica, and a lifetime with Alyssa. xo" - Jennifer Manuel
Our heartfelt thanks to our 2016 Sponsors: Coconut Creek, The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy (Lacewood Drive), Izzy's Bagel Co., Westjet, Halifax Regional Municipality and Councillor Tim Outhit, The Running Room, The Chickenburger, C100
Supporters and Friends: Aerobics First, Casino NB, Jill's Chocolates, Morris East, Magic Mountain, Party Ice, Ski Martock, Hamachi House, Museum of Natural History, Discovery Centre, The Brace Space
The 8th Annual IWK 5k for Jessica will take place on June 4, 2017 at DeWolf Park, Bedford Nova Scotia.