Ellyn Holzman

A Tribute to Her Mother

Former mayor's daughter champions cure for breast cancer during the National Capital Race Weekend

In April 1998, Ellyn Holzman was approached to participate in the National Capital Race Weekend's 10-km run to raise funds for the Women's Breast Health Centre at The Ottawa Hospital.

Ellyn's mother, Jacquelin Holzman, the former mayor of Ottawa, had just come forward to publicly announce she had breast cancer, so it was a fitting time for her to champion her mother's cause.

She remembers being approached by Russell Mills, former editor of The Ottawa Citizen, who suggested she run, sponsored by the Citizen, in the 10-km race.

"I think it will be a great tribute to your mom," he told her.

Wearing the same shirt her mother wore the day she made her announcement, Ellyn completed her first 10-km run ever in 62 minutes, raising over $32,000.

She has since run every spring raising funds for The Ottawa Hospital.

Ellyn's fundraising strategy consists of a letter writing campaign run by her and her mother, which takes place every March. She currently has over 300 people who contribute each year.

"What I've really found is this is a very supportive community and the people who have supported us believe in The Ottawa Hospital," says Ellyn. "The Foundation is my charity of choice, and I want to make sure that when I need the Hospital, the Hospital's there for me. I'm no different than anyone else in the city."

She has also volunteered much of her valuable time sitting on the Board of The Ottawa Hospital Foundation.

"The Hospital is near and dear to my heart," says Ellyn. "For too long, people have taken health care in our community for granted. The reality is the government can't do it alone. That's where the Foundation comes in."