By Sheldon Spackman

Health And Safety In Mind

Organizers cancel Leah’s Light walk/run in support of overdose awareness

Aug 26, 2021 | 9:33 AM

An event planned in Red Deer this weekend aimed at raising overdose awareness, has been canceled by organizers.

The third annual Leah’s Light 5 km walk/run was slated to take place at Kiwanis Picnic Park on Aug. 28 – just three days ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day (Aug. 31).

The event is held in remembrance of Leah, a 31-year-old who lost her life in 2018 as the result of an accidental overdose.

On the event’s Facebook page, organizers say the decision, however, was not made lightly, and came after much thought and consideration.

“I have gotten some feedback and decided this was the best way to keep everyone safe as the spread of COVID-19 has accelerated again,” reads a statement from Ashley Balan, Leah’s sister. “Many of us share different opinions about COVID and have different comfort levels. I hope we can all agree that keeping everyone safe should be the main priority.”

Last seen March 31

Missing: Eugenie Headman, 66, of Maskwacis

4h ago

mayor hopes to meet housing minister this month

Alberta demands Ottawa back off on housing funding stripped from Red Deer

Apr 02, 2026

Last seen Jan. 15

Missing: Courtney Cattleman, 17, of Maskwacis

Apr 02, 2026

Balan notes that everyone who bought a ticket has been reimbursed back to the card they paid with through Eventbrite.

“I look forward to the future and planning an event for August 2022 that looks very similar to pre COVID times,” adds Balan. “If you need Naloxone or Naloxone training, please contact Turning Point and they will help you out. Thank you all for your understanding as we navigate these crazy times.”

Related: Leah’s Light walk/run returns to raise drug overdose awareness