Winnipeg man completes 5,000-kilometre run to give back to hospital that saved his life
Posted June 7, 2025 5:16 pm.
Last Updated June 8, 2025 3:17 pm.
Winnipeg man Paul Bernardin says he was given a second chance at life by the staff at St. Boniface Hospital after suffering two heart attacks in 2006.
Fast forward to May 2023: in an effort to give back to the hospital that saved him, Bernardin launched the Winnipeg Street Run 5000K Project, aiming to raise funds for cardiac care while also promoting a healthy lifestyle.
On Saturday, surrounded by friends and family, Bernardin completed his remarkable 5,000-kilometre goal.
“4,710 streets, 4,400 km on the streets, plus I did another 600—so I’ve run 5,000 km since I started,” Bernardin explained. “It’s all in the hopes of raising money for St. Boniface Hospital Cardiac Care, who took such great care of me when I was in.”
To date, the project has raised $10,000, but Bernardin says it’s about more than just money—it’s about inspiring others to live healthier lives.
“I had a couple of friends who passed away—they just died in their bathrooms overnight. And I started to think, why did I survive and they didn’t? Maybe I’ve got to do something with this,” he said.
Dawn Hanson, the project lead and a close friend, said, “Paul’s focus has really been on being a role model for good health, making exercise an important part of life, and reducing the burden on the healthcare system by living well.”
Friends and family gathered near The Forks for the final leg of his run, which ended with a symbolic photo in front of St. Boniface Hospital—where his life was saved 18 years ago.
Adding a deeply personal touch to the day, Bernardin carried the memory of his late father with him.
“On his final night, I was sitting with him overnight. We talked—well, I talked, because he was no longer speaking—but I told him we’d be running to the finish line together. I brought him along today, and I’m sure he’s been riding on my shoulder for the last year,” Bernardin said, looking skyward. “God bless your soul.”
There’s still time to donate to the cause by visiting the St. Boniface Hospital website.
