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The UBC Run for Rural Medicine is right around the corner.

The fundraiser is a five-kilometre walk/run that raises funds for Hope Air, a charity that helps Canadians in need travel to medical appointments.

The event is happening April 12 at Pandosy Waterfront Park in Kelowna, virtually and in Victoria and Vancouver.

The run has been raising money for rural hospital support for nearly 20 years, helping to bridge the gap between home and hospital for Canadians who must travel for medical care.

All of the money raised will help ensure patients can get where they need to go without the burden of travel costs.

Last year, Hope Air helped more than 5,600 patients and caregivers with trips from smaller communities to hospitals, far from home.

“We assisted families, individuals and children in over 230 rural or under-served communities with over 21,000 travel arrangements comprised of flights, accommodation, meals and rides,” says a news release from Hope Air.

Qualified participants receive prizes and a chance to win two roundtrip tickets anywhere Pacific Coastal Airlines flies. People can show their support by registering for the walk/run or donating directly to the event by clicking here.