2011 was a stellar year with lots of bright moments and, of course, some challenges.
We started off the year by launching a safe online community for people with cancer and their caregivers to communicate with each other. The site, www.cancerconnection.ca, is a supportive forum for discussions, blogs, groups and other information.
In February a new poll told us more than 70 per cent of British Columbians believe exposure to cosmetic pesticides increases their risk of cancer and threatens the environment. The research provided yet more evidence that the public supports our efforts to secure a comprehensive ban in BC. Our pesticide work continued through the year. We now have 22 organisations and 30 BC communities coming out in favour of a ban.
Our plan to build a new lodge for cancer patients in the North was boosted significantly by three major gifts totalling $4 million and an additional $2 million from the BC Government. Patients and family members from communities all over Northern BC, who have to travel long distances to Prince George for cancer treatment, can stay at the new, welcoming and affordable lodge. The lodge will be named the Kordyban Lodge in honour of a $2 million gift from the Kordyban family. The Novak’s $1 million gift will be recognized through The Novak Family Meditation and Spiritual Room. West Fraser Timber’s gift of $1 million will be recognized through the West Fraser Timber Lounge. Construction of the lodge, began with a groundbreaking ceremony in July. The facility is expected to open later this year. Visit www.kordybanlodge.ca
April was Daffodil Month and yellow daffodils pins were on the coat lapels of thousands of British Columbians reminding those with cancer they are not alone. The campaign included a commemoration of Daffodil Day during April with strong public support. It was expanded to locations across Canada following BC’s successful pilot in 2010.
Nationally the Society invested $48 million in the best cancer research projects. Approximately $2 million was awarded to four innovative BC based researchers and added to the existing 32 grants in progress in BC. We also invested just over $2 million in the Cancer Prevention Centre (a few more details below).
In May and June thousands of British Columbians and Yukoners celebrated, remembered and fought back against cancer by taking part in one of 54 Relay For Life events. Thanks to their efforts $5.2 million was raised.
In 2011 we also celebrated the one millionth call on 1-888 939 3333 to our Cancer Information Service, which has been providing reliable, up-to-date and easy-to-understand cancer information since 1996.
We have also made great progress on the establishment of a Cancer Prevention Centre as outlined in our Strategic Plan. Canadian Cancer Society Chair in Cancer Primary Prevention at UBC and future Director of the Centre, Dr Carolyn Gotay has recruited staff to increase the amount of prevention research and other activities.
Our groundbreaking workplace wellness program that provides employers with the expertise and tools to create opportunities in the workplace for employees to improve their health and reduce their cancer risk, is going strong.
I have every hope that 2012 will be just as eventful and impactful as our efforts in 2011. However the challenging economic environment has not changed. Now more than ever we appreciate the continuing support of all our donors. Your trust in us and recognition that we are the best investment in the cancer cause keeps us inspired to do more.