It was a beautiful sunny Friday in Athabasca when over 30 men – and boys – strapped into high heels and walked to raise awareness and funds for relationship abuse.
“I want you guys to think of a flat tire,” said event MC Mike Maclean. “Think of the worst flat tire you've ever had and, I guess, that could be the feeling for many of us, I hope, is the closest to whatever gets them to the point that they've got to call Brenda.”
The event raised $20,085.70. Todd Dutchak was the top pledge earner at $3,250 and Royal LePage was the top corporate sponsor at $5,000. All of the funds went towards Thrive – Athabasca’s support program for those suffering from relationship abuse.
“Those are people that have reached out for help and said ‘what I am experiencing is wrong and I need some help figuring out what I need to do to get it healthy or to leave the situation,’” said Brenda from Thrive. “So, that's what we do: we help them figure out the options that are best for them and help them get where they need to be to be healthy.”
The day started with the men and boys dressed in heels – and drag – doing an obstacle course. They had to rush with a doll in a cart to a table, change the doll’s “diaper” and rush back. Next, they “warmed up” hula hooping and doing the chicken dance.
Finally, it was time for the main event. The participants walked around the Riverfront in their heels and outfits drawing applause and horns as they went.
“Together, we're looking at relationships in our community and this is one way that we're trying to work against the things that can happen, the bad things,” said Maclean.
“This is an amazing turnout for today,” said Brenda added. “Thank you so, so much to everyone that's participating.”
