Nielsen is a global marketing research firm with a passion for consumer insights within the CPG industry. As a company we are committed giving back to the community with our outreach programs. Nielsen Canada is proud to support Ovarian Cancer Canada. To show our support and raise awareness we have formed a team to run in the Scotiabank Toronto Marathon on October 18th 2015.
We all have different goals and levels of running but equally committed to raising awareness for OCC!

Meet our Nielsen OCC team:
Elly Koskova
Audrey Dam
Samantha Doyle
Sandra King
Larissa Watson
Michael Lever
Megan Jeffery 

Elly Kosakova: Elly loves the outdoors and looks for any opportunity to stay active! Running is a great way to stay in shape, while the Scotiabank Run gives the opportunity to use her hobbies towards fundraising for a great cause! She's had family members and friends affected by cancer, and this run enables her to give back to the community, her family, and friends!

Megan Jeffery: I have been an enthusiastic athlete my entire life but one thing I never really liked was running. However, after struggling with joint issues in early adult life, I decided this was something I was prepared to tackle. I wanted to find out what I was like to run a race. So a few years ago with the encouragement of my family I started running. I have now completed three races even though I continue to struggle every day with my joints. I find running is my way to say that my joints are not winning. I have also been successful at making this a family activity as both my daughters now run with my husband and I, including in races.

Michael Lever: My name is Michael Lever and I have been running for the past two years. Prior to this, I was looking for a way to get in shape but didn't really enjoy other forms of exercising. For my birthday two winters ago, I decided to join a learn to run program and found that I really loved the time that running gives me in terms of being alone with my thoughts and at the same time exploring new places around where I live. By the end of the Learn to Run program I was the only student left, and I have been increasing my distances ever since. I have since completed a marathon, several half marathons, and many shorter distance races ranging from 5km-8km in length. Each race I strive to run a little faster than my last, and it has forced me to think more about my nutrition and training. Each run I do, whether it's for fun or in a race, I always look forward to the "runner's high" that accompanies it (and a post-race drink with friends is always a strong motivator as well!). Thanks for your support!

Larissa Watson: Running was something I never thought I could accomplish until a friend encouraged me to join the Running Run and learn to run. I surprised myself when I completed a 5K run and felt a huge sense of accomplishment. Running was a way to help boost my confidence and become healthier. I am now excited to run the 5K at the Scotiabank Marathon for a second time. This time I am thrilled to be part of the Nielsen OCC team and supporting a worthy cause! 

Every dollar this event raises supports Ovarian Cancer Canada, the only national charity entirely dedicated to this important cause. Funds will be used to provide support, increase awareness and fund vital research.

Together we can make a difference.