Wounded Warrior Run BC makes its way to the Comox Valley on Wednesday

Honouring and supporting those who served means a little bit extra for Sgt. Rob Brennan with the Comox Valley RCMP.

Brennan is an RCMP officer from the Comox Valley detachment, and a runner for the B.C. chapter of the Wounded Warriors Run, making its way through the Valley on Wednesday (Feb. 28). The annual run, which aims to raise awareness and funds for veterans and first responders experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder and operational stress injuries, began in Port Hardy and ends in Victoria over eight days.

"Policing is an extremely rewarding career; however, the reality that cannot be ignored is that it comes with regular exposure to trauma, horrific scenes, and dangerous situations," he noted in a release.

Brennan has served in various communities, including Prince George, Port Hardy and Haida Gwaii.

"Over the course of my career, I have observed many members who have suffered immensely as a result of the mental toll this takes on one's mind. I have a passion and I am driven to empower others to open up about their struggles, seek assistance, and overcome challenges."

The run began on Sunday (Feb. 25) at Carrot Bay Park in Port Hardy and finishes in Old Market Square in Victoria on March 3. In the Valley, runners are set to arrive at the Comox Valley RCMP detachment on Ryan Road at 2 p.m. and visit 888 Wing Air Force Association at 3:30 p.m.

One hundred per cent of funds donated from Vancouver Island stay on the Island. According to the organization, any money donated comes back 10-fold to provide life-changing programs on the Island.

The financial goal of the run is to reach $250,000; currently, their fundraising total as of Feb. 26 is $77,341.