From the cash register to the starting line
April 28, 2026
Every year, the Shoppers Drug Mart® Run for Women brings together thousands of Canadians in 18 communities for a 5K or 10K run/walk series dedicated to supporting women’s mental health programs. From coast to coast, participants lace up their shoes and run or walk side-by-side, each step serving as a powerful demonstration of community, compassion, and hope.
Among this year’s participants is Sylvie, a dedicated cashier at Pharmaprix in Quebec City. For Sylvie, the Run for Women has become much more than an annual event, it is a meaningful tradition she shares with her three children. Together they participate in the 5k walk, making race day a special occasion filled with energy and purpose.
For the past five years, Sylvie has led by example - motivating her store team to get involved, fundraising enthusiastically, and encouraging others to support women’s mental health. Her passion shines through as she rallies not only her store team but also her family and local community around this important cause.
When asked about her favourite part of event day, Sylvie said it’s the opportunity to be outside with her kids, her co-workers, and her community. “It’s uplifting to see everyone come together for such an important cause,” says Sylvie. “The energy is incredible - you can really feel that we’re all making a difference together.”
Sylvie’s store proudly supports Fondation CERVO, a local charity partner dedicated to advancing research and care in neuroscience and mental health. Funds raised through the Run for Women directly benefitFondation CERVO’s initiatives, helping to humanize patient care, develop innovative treatment techniques, and raise community awareness about mental health.
While Sylvie hasn’t faced mental health challenges herself, she sees their impact every day through her work. “Many women who visit our store are coping with mental health issues often connected to the growing challenge of homelessness in our community,” says Sylvie. “Knowing that our fundraising and participation in the Run support Fondation CERVO and can potentially help some of the women we see every day, makes it even more meaningful.”
Sylvie’s dedication doesn’t go unnoticed by those around her. Lyson Larouche, Front Store Manager of her store shares, “Sylvie is truly an inspiration to our team. Her commitment to the Run for Women and her support for Fondation CERVO is incredible. Our team is excited to participate again this year, under her leadership”
Thanks to passionate team members like Sylvie, and the more than 8,700 store and corporate employees who participated in 2025, the Shoppers Drug Mart® Run for Women continues to raise awareness and improve access to mental health resources for women across Canada.
Whether you’re running, walking, donating, or volunteering, every action matters - together, we’re building healthier lives and stronger communities, one step at a time.
