Nearly 40 enthusiastic participants laced up their sneakers early on Saturday, July 5, 2025, to take part in the second annual Run for Brantford, a charitable event organized by Mercy 4 Mankind and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA). The event was more than just a run; it was a heartfelt effort to raise critical funds for the Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) Foundation, specifically targeting diagnostic imaging needs at Brantford General Hospital.
A Cause Close to Home
This year’s event shone a spotlight on one of the BCHS Foundation’s most pressing priorities: the urgent need for updated diagnostic imaging equipment. The healthcare system is facing a substantial financial challenge, with costs expected to exceed $6 million for replacing outdated machines and technology that are crucial for timely and accurate diagnoses.
“Our big priority right now is diagnostic imaging,” said Haidee Scheers, Special Events Development Coordinator for the BCHS Foundation. “It’s supposed to cost in excess of $6 million, and so the run today is in support of that. Specifically, we’re looking to raise funds for a new gamma camera for Brantford General Hospital.”
Gamma cameras are essential in nuclear medicine, enabling doctors to view organs and tissues in ways other imaging devices can’t. Upgrading this technology will help clinicians detect, diagnose, and treat various conditions more effectively—especially in cancer care and cardiac health.
Community Partnership in Action
The Run for Brantford is a third-party community event, meaning it’s independently organized with proceeds going directly to the BCHS Foundation. Events like this play a crucial role in expanding local healthcare capabilities. They also underscore the powerful role that grassroots initiatives and community spirit play in strengthening essential services.
“We’re really thrilled to be back here again,” said Scheers. “Working with the Mercy 4 Mankind group and Safi Hafiz-Zadeh has been such a blessing. They’ve been great allies and advocates for our healthcare system. Events like this really showcase how much healthcare means to the people of Brantford.”
Opening Remarks and Heartfelt Thanks
The morning began with a recitation and translation of the Holy Quran, followed by a few opening remarks by Salman Rehan, a representative from Mercy 4 Mankind. He welcomed participants and emphasized the shared mission of compassion, service, and giving back to the community.
Shortly after, Larry Brock, Member of Parliament for Brantford–Brant, addressed the crowd to express his gratitude and support.
“By participating in this event, you are signaling our support for those who dedicate their lives to keeping our Brantford–Brant residents healthy,” Brock said. “The funds raised will allow our healthcare system to keep expanding to better serve the community in the future. A huge thank you to all the sponsors and organizers for this Run for Brantford. It’s always exciting to see organizations that are dedicated to helping local communities do great work.”
Hit the Ground Running
With the formalities complete, participants gathered for a quick group warm-up, stretching and energizing for the routes ahead. Participants had a choice between a 3-kilometer run and a 1-kilometer fun walk, making the event accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.
From toddlers in strollers to seniors with walking poles, the atmosphere was inclusive and filled with laughter, cheers, and encouragement. It wasn’t about setting records—it was about solidarity.
As runners made their way through the course, volunteers and onlookers cheered from the sidelines, waving flags and offering high-fives. The course wound through Brantford’s scenic neighborhoods, finishing back where it began, where refreshments and snacks awaited participants.
Giving Back, One Step at a Time
For Safi Hafiz-Zadeh, event coordinator and longtime Brantford resident, organizing the Run for Brantford is deeply personal.
“I’ve been in Brantford for over 50 years now, so I am quite happy to help put this on again,” Hafiz-Zadeh said. “It allows me to give back to a community that’s been very good to me and my family.”
Having successfully launched the inaugural run in 2024, Hafiz-Zadeh and the Mercy 4 Mankind team were eager to grow the event’s impact in its second year.
“Last year was our first run, and so going into our second, we’re trying to really evolve and grow, and make sure it gets a bit bigger every year,” he said. “I’m very pleasantly surprised and happy with all the support we’ve had from the community. It’s nice to see everyone getting behind such a great cause, and we’re happy to be a part of it.”
About Mercy 4 Mankind and AMYA
Mercy 4 Mankind is a national initiative run by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association, aimed at serving the community through charitable work, social outreach, and public service events. In addition to organizing runs like this one, the group frequently holds food drives, blood donation campaigns, park cleanups, and other events aimed at improving communities across Canada.
Their guiding principle is based on the Islamic teaching of “Love for All, Hatred for None.” These words are more than a slogan—they’re a commitment to peace, unity, and service.
The Importance of Diagnostic Imaging
Diagnostic imaging is the backbone of modern medicine, providing crucial information to detect everything from fractures to tumors. The equipment used—such as CT scanners, MRI machines, ultrasound, and gamma cameras—must be up-to-date to ensure accurate results and fast diagnoses.
Unfortunately, many of the machines currently in use at Brantford General Hospital are outdated, which can cause delays and impact the quality of care. That’s why the BCHS Foundation has made this area a top fundraising priority.
According to BCHS data, over 200,000 diagnostic procedures were performed in the last fiscal year alone. Upgraded equipment will not only improve the patient experience but also help retain skilled medical professionals who want to work with the best tools available.
More Than Just a Run
Beyond its immediate fundraising goals, the Run for Brantford fostered a deep sense of community and unity. Participants weren’t just helping fund hospital equipment—they were strengthening the very fabric of their town.
The sight of neighbors coming together for a shared cause, the sound of laughter mixing with cheers, and the collective determination to make healthcare better for all—it’s moments like these that remind us why such events matter.
As Hafiz-Zadeh said, “Events like this give us a chance to show that when a community comes together, real change is possible.”
Check Out Our Upcoming Runs!
If you missed the Brantford event or want to continue supporting your local healthcare systems while staying active, don’t worry—we’ve got more runs coming up in cities across Canada!
- Run for Bradford — September 13th, 2025
- Run for London — September 13th, 2025
- Run for Saskatoon — September 14th, 2025
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to get involved, there’s a place for everyone at these events. Help us raise awareness, build community, and support healthcare—one step at a time.
