Two-and-a-half years later, Wilson hit the streets of Ridgeway this past weekend to raise money for the cause.

"With all the negative surrounding it I wanted to do something positive that had to do with lung cancer. The more I looked into it, I found it is the least fundraised for even though it affects a lot of people," she said.

Wilson organized the first Run for the Lung held in town. Despite misty rain, the event Sunday attracted more than 50 participants and Wilson said most weren't family and friends.

She advertised with posters throughout town, on the town's website and in the Fort Erie Shopper.

She solicited donations from area businesses and clubs and was overwhelmed with support. The Ridgeway Lions Club covered insurance for the event.

All money raised will be donated to the Canadian Cancer Society, which was also supportive of the event, and will be directed specifically to lung cancer research.

"They call it the silent killer because the symptoms aren't always identified," said Wilson.

Wilson's father, Don, helped run the event, manning a water station during the run with Wilson's sister, Jessica.

"I'm pretty proud of her (Jamie)," said Don. "She's a really thoughtful girl. It makes me proud to see her want to do something like this. She's always been a very compassionate person."

Participants in Sunday's Run for the Lung didn't only bring their pledges -- they carried garbage bags to pick up waste along the various routes.

The event raised more than $5,400 and it's not too late to donate. For more information, call Wilson at 905-894-9482. Wilson said she will definitely host the event again next year.

"It wasn't all about the money. It was to raise awareness and to get people outside and together," said Wilson.