Robert Davidson Walk for Pulmonary Fibrosis raises over $27,000
Close to 100 participants raised just over $27,000 at the fifth annual Robert Davidson Walk for PF on September 19 th at Toogood Pond. The event was a powerful show of solidarity for those living with pulmonary fibrosis and a heartwarming tribute to those lost to the incurable disease.
Heather Davidson organized the first walk in Markham after her husband Robert Davidson passed away from PF in 2019. He founded the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (CPFF) in 2009 to give hope to others and in an effort to make sure Canadians don’t have to suffer the impact of PF alone.
Today, CPFF provides support groups across the country for people living with PF and their caregivers, funds research, engages in advocacy and continues to uphold Robert’s pledge to “Never Surrender.”
Pulmonary Fibrosis is a progressive disease that causes irreversible scarring of the lungs, making it increasingly difficult to breathe. Everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs and talking can become exhausting and challenging.
“We are so inspired by Heather and the PF community in the Greater Toronto Area who help CPFF ensure we have the funds to provide invaluable resources and spread awareness to make living with PF more bearable for Canadian families,” said Sharon Lee, CEO of CPFF.
The annual walk is a reminder that while there is still much work to do to improve life for people living with PF, there is also reason for hope.
The Markham walk is one of ten taking place across Canada in recognition of Pulmonary Fibrosis Month in September. So far, over $200,000 of the $225,000 goal has already been raised to support the advocacy work, research, education and patient and caregiver support offered by CPFF.
Access to medical oxygen can be a challenge for many Ontarians across Canada; access to medically necessary oxygen can depend on where a person lives, how they qualify for coverage and whether they can afford significant out-of-pocket costs.
September is Pulmonary Fibrosis Month across Canada, with 14,000 new cases of pulmonary fibrosis expected to be diagnosed in Canada in 2026 alone. CPFF remains committed to supporting people with PF and their families while advancing research toward better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
For more information about Pulmonary Fibrosis Month in Canada, check out the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation website.
Photo: Residents show support for Pulmonary Fibrosis Month at Toogood Pond (Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation photo)