Support Sydney’s Rise & Run
On February 12, 2020, Sydney Touzel’s life changed forever. After dropping her son off at school, she was attacked by her ex-boyfriend in an act of intimate partner violence that nearly took her life.
Since that day, Sydney has worked tirelessly to heal — physically and emotionally. Her lived experience now fuels her commitment to raising awareness and supporting others in our community who are experiencing violence.
On February 14, 2026, Sydney will take on a powerful challenge: running 21 kilometres — a half marathon — from Little Falls Elementary School in St. Marys to Optimism Place in Stratford. She will depart at 9:00 a.m. and is expected to arrive around 11:00 a.m. This run represents resilience, strength, and the belief that healing is possible. Through focused determination, Sydney is showing survivors everywhere that a future free from violence can exist.
Sydney is inviting our community to stand with her by donating to Optimism Place Women’s Shelter and Support Services. Funds raised will directly support women and children across Perth County.
Sydney has already raised over $4000, and supporters are encouraged to donate any amount — including pledges based on the number of kilometres she runs.
In addition to financial donations, Sydney is also collecting menstrual health items, including tampons, at both the start and finish of her run. A support truck will follow along the route to collect donations as well.
“What Sydney is doing, is not only empowering to other women who are experiencing abuse, but it’s an example to our whole community that we can all do something to end violence against women.”
Donna Jean Forster, Executive Director
Donations can be made online or dropped off in person at Optimism Place (cash or cheque, marked for Sydney’s Rise & Run)
Every contribution helps create safer futures for women and children in our community.