The 4th annual Okotoks Rabbit Run and Bunny Dash raised about $2000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada and Team Evelyn Saturday.

The fundraiser features a 5K run, and race for kids aged 1-8 called the Bunny Dash.

Sarah Gauthier, event organizer, and member of Team in Training, says Okotoks makes for a great race location.

"We started doing this race because we wanted a fun run to kick off the running season. It's a little early for most races, usually they start when it's a little bit warmer. But we wanted to do something fun in Okotoks, and we figured (Ethel Tucker Park) was the place to do it. There's lots of pathways, and availability, and everyone's really supportive in this community," Gauthier said.

The easter-themed event is perfect timing for residents looking to burn off some of those easter chocolate calories.

"Lots of people come out here and they want to burn off that chocolate. Some people will dress up, and our volunteers will have the bunny ears and the shirt so they can be pointed out on the course," Gauthier said.

The money raised for the Leukemia and Lymphoma society mainly goes towards cancer research.

"They are fighting for a cure. Their money goes towards research, and families that have the diagnosis," Gauthier said.

For Gauthier, the event has a personal connection. After losing her grandfather to cancer ten years ago, Gathier's mother joined Team in Training.

When her mother received a Lymphoma diagnosis a few years ago, Gauthier decided to join the team as well.

"I joined the team to help raise money, because I feel like without people like us she wouldn't be cancer free like she is now," Gauthier said.

In addition to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society some of the funds will go towards Team Evelyn, to support the family of Evelyn Roy, a 9 year-old girl who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma last fall.

Evelyn's mother Heather Roy helped organize the original Rabbit Run four years ago.

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