How the ‘C95 Radio Marathon for Breast Cancer Research’ Began

Lisa Rendall was born in Outlook, Saskatchewan, and grew up in Loreburn. After high school, she pursued her love for music and a career in radio broadcasting.

In 2000, Rob Suski, Lisa Rendall, and Rambling Dave from C95 were the number one morning show team in Saskatoon.

Rob will never forget the day his co-host and friend, Lisa, started mentioning her sore neck. When the pain worsened, Lisa went to her doctor. Testing revealed she had stage four breast cancer that had spread, weakening the bones in her neck; her vertebrae were collapsing on top of each other.

The shock of the diagnosis affected everyone at the radio station. Like a family, C95 came together, and with inspiration from Lisa the first C95 Radio Marathon for Breast Cancer Research launched in the fall of 2000 with proceeds supporting breast cancer research in Saskatchewan.

Lisa had recently undergone neck surgery, but she insisted on attending to inform radio listeners about her illness and the treatments she was receiving. She encouraged C95 hosts to simply tell the truth about her situation, and shared her story with a positive attitude, sense of humour and profound sincerity. She put a face to breast cancer in Saskatchewan and launched the platform for others to speak openly about their diagnoses.

Over $100,000 was raised for breast cancer research in that first year with Lisa Rendall.

Lisa Rendall passed away on April 13, 2011, at the age of 46. Her legacy lives on today through the C95 Radio Marathon.

Rob, along with morning show co-host Shauna Foster, have continued to host the C95 Radio Marathon for Breast Cancer Research, keeping their friend and colleague’s legacy alive. This year marks the 25th annual event.

“I think of Lisa, and the amazing generosity of our listeners, every year when we announce our total,” says Shauna. “I wish she could be here to see how her legacy continues to give back, change lives and inspire hope to so many people affected by breast cancer in Saskatchewan.”

Since C95 Radio Marathon began, more than 6.4 million dollars has been raised for breast cancer research in Saskatchewan through the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan.

For information on the C95 Radio Marathon, click here. To make your donation, click here.