Over the next few months, those months where the sun is actually warm, and snow is but a memory, there will be a host of walkathons in Yorkton.
The events are important fundraisers for a number of good causes, ranging from dogs walks for the local SPCA, to those which look to raise dollars to help fund research into many diseases which affect neighbours, friends and family for all of us.
Each of the walks supports a good cause, and while we may not be able to support every one, it is important we do what we can.
Of course there is more to these events than a call for money.
Each walkathon is also an opportunity to raise community awareness about disease.
The more we know about the early detection of diseases ranging from cancers, to diabetes, and health disease, the better prepared we become at catching them early, when treatments have the best chance to extend our lives.
Education on any subject makes us better prepared, and walkathons play a role in giving us those important tools.
In one case, an organizer for a new walk in the city has an important message we all need to listen too, and consider.
Audrey Parisloff is organizing the first 'Give the Gift of Life Fun Run' which will be held in Yorkton Saturday June 26.
Parisloff has a deep personal interest in helping raise awareness and dollars for kidney disease research. She said she had one uncle who had a transplant nearly three decades ago, and a nephew also went through one.
And more close to home Parisloff's 17-year-old grandson Bradley Woychesko takes dialysis treatments three times a week in Yorkton and is on the waiting list for a transplant."
When it comes to the need for transplants Parisloff has a message which goes beyond helping with just kidney disease.
Parisloff said the walk in June is also about raising awareness, in particular to have people sign their donor cards. "Sign the donor card. So many need a kidney, liver, lungs or a heart," she said, adding that once someone signs the card, they should tell their family so they are aware of their decision.
It seems like such a simple and selfless thing for all of us to do.
We often talk about having concern for our fellow man. We are eager to toss a few dollars in the Christmas kettles to help others enjoy the season. We support walkathons through participation and pledges, knowing our dollars may well help scientists and doctors find cures to diseases which now kill far too many.
So the thought that when we die we might still help others to live longer, better, healthier lives, is something which we should all consider.
The thought that even in our deaths we might help a 17-year-old walk away from weekly dialysis in some way is the ultimate donation to help others.
The thought that another might see with our eyes even after we are gone means we have given a gift like no other. It is a gift which touches the person who may see their first ever Prairie sunrise.
It is a subject we may not talk of often, but it is something we should all take a moment to consider. It really is so easy. You can put a small sticker on your license and other than letting your family know so they are prepared, that's it.
It is an idea Parisloff hopes people will take to heart, so that people like her grandson can enjoy better lives by the ultimate generosity of others.
