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No Ordinary Run

The Coca-Cola Company, a 36-year corporate donor to RMHC and a sponsor of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay, gave one girl the experience of a lifetime. Cianna, who battled Wilms' tumor, a form of kidney cancer, had the chance to do what very few people do - run with the Olympic torch.

14-year-old cancer survivor Cianna Pawluck stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Vancouver in 2007 while being treated for Wilms' tumor, a form of kidney cancer. She still stays at the House every six months for check-ups.

"Cianna and her family were so excited to be given this opportunity," said Richard Pass, chief executive officer, Ronald McDonald House British Columbia.  "The Olympics are obviously a huge deal in Canada and they were overjoyed to be part of this special moment.  With all of the struggles this family has gone through, it was such a joy to see Cianna experience a once in a lifetime run with the Olympic torch."
 
But the 36-year RMHC donor didn't stop there.  They also provided the opportunity for two RMHC staff members from local Chapters to run with the torch.  The RMHC staff members were extremely grateful for their special Olympic experience.
 
"The families that stay at the Ronald McDonald House and the staff that support them are some of the strongest and most giving people I know," said Mike Slocum, assistant vice president, The Coca-Cola Company.  "We couldn't think of anyone more deserving than Cianna and the RMHC staff to run with the Olympic Torch."  
 
About The Coca-Cola Company's Commitment
The Coca-Cola Company became a corporate donor to RMHC in 1974, and the company continues to stand out as a loyal and charitable supporter today.  The company donates a stocked vending machine to every Ronald McDonald House in the world.  Vending machines generate $2,000 in revenue for each House.
 
Coca-Cola's commitment extends far beyond its product donation.  Local RMHC Chapters and their programs also benefit from fundraisers such as golf outings and dinner auctions.  Since 1984, Coca-Cola has given RMHC more than $6 million in grants.


 

"The families that stay at the Ronald McDonald House and the staff that support them are some of the strongest and most giving people I know," said Mike Slocum, assistant vice president, Coca-Cola.  "Coca-Cola couldn't think of anyone more deserving to run with the Olympic Torch." 

 


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