One walk could save a life—Kingston event turns workplace tragedy into hope

Steps for Life fundraiser supports families and promotes safer workplaces across Canada.

A workplace death, serious injury or illness can leave a lasting impact on families and entire communities. In Kingston, an annual walk is working to turn that loss into hope, healing and prevention.

Committee co-chair and owner of Wilkens Health and Safety, Wiebke Wilkens, says the event returns every year.

Steps for Life Kingston is part of a national fundraiser for Threads of Life, a charity that provides peer support programs for people affected by workplace tragedies. The five-kilometre, family-friendly walk also raises awareness about the importance of safety on the job.

Wilkens says the date of the walk carries special meaning.

Spokesperson Lisa Kadosa says the mission is deeply personal. Her father, miner Robert “Seawolf” Nesbitt, died in a workplace incident she believes was preventable.

She says sharing his story is a way to honour his memory and encourage others to choose safety.

Wilkens says impacted families also attend to reflect and remember.

The event will take place May 2 at Little Cataraqui Conservation Authority. Registration opens at 9:15 a.m., followed by opening remarks at 10 a.m.

Funds raised will support families across Canada coping with the lasting effects of workplace-related loss, injury and illness.

Story by Alyssa Brush