Patient Stories

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Your donations positively impact people in your community every day. They could be your neighbours, friends and even your family members. We encourage you to read the stories of patients from right here in our province who have benefitted from the generosity of donors.

World Cancer Day

As World Cancer Day on February 4 approaches, think about the people behind every cancer diagnosis – those newly diagnosed, their families, loved ones and all the stories of remarkable resilience. This year, more than 7,600 Manitobans will be diagnosed with cancer. You can make a difference for them today.Right now, your support is needed to advance cancer research that leads to new and improved treatments and better outcomes. And today, your support will be doubled.All gifts made in support of World Cancer Day will be matched up to a total of $10,000 thanks to SCU. Fund cancer research. Become a monthly donor Make a one-time gift Neil knows firsthand how meaningful your support is.With a family history of cancer, Neil’s mother encouraged him to get screened for colon cancer when he was 31 years old. Having experienced cancer herself at a young age, she understood the importance of being proactive.Neil’s screening confirmed colon cancer. The news came as a shock – he had no symptoms. He was young and healthy, in the prime of adulthood.Fortunately, the cancer had been found early. He had surgery followed by chemotherapy. Thankfully, the treatment was successful. For the next five years, Neil remained cancer-free and was able to focus on his family, career in the military and future.Your support helps make stories like Neil’s possible. And it’s needed today.Funded by donors like you, programs at CancerCare Manitoba work to ensure that Manitobans know that they have access to cancer screening, and how to register. Beyond diagnosis, donors fund follow-up care, and guidance tailored to each individual’s situation.Unfortunately, Neil’s experience with cancer wasn’t over. In 2004, while serving in Afghanistan with the Canadian Armed Forces, Neil suddenly became unwell. He was urgently flown back to Winnipeg, where tests revealed acute myeloid leukemia. His life was turned upside down by cancer for a second time.Because of supporters like you, local cancer research continues to advance, paving the way for innovative treatments that make a real difference. Make a one-time gift Neil faced an intensive treatment plan that included multiple rounds of chemotherapy. He responded well, and his leukemia went into remission—where it remains today.But in 2014, the colon cancer returned. Once more, Neil’s research-informed treatment was thankfully successful.Today, Neil undergoes annual cancer checks, a reminder of both his journey and the importance of continuing research that will provide better treatments for future patients. Your continued support is vital—helping research move forward and making a meaningful difference for Neil and for thousands of Manitobans facing cancer today.Your donation this World Cancer Day is essential to ensuring that Manitobans with cancer continue to have strong research programs behind them, enhanced care, and access to the latest treatments through clinical trials. Please consider a donation today.  Fund cancer research. Become a monthly donor Make a one-time gift

Josiah’s Story

After Josiah was born, Susan and Pierre dreamed of watching their son Josiah grow, play and laugh like every child should. They never imagined that before his fourth birthday, he would be fighting for his life. Less than a year ago their lives changed unthinkably when Josiah was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, an aggressive type of blood cancer. They were terrified. They’re sharing Josiah’s story as a powerful reminder of continued support is needed.

Norm’s Story

When Norm began participating in CancerCare Manitoba Foundation’s Challenge for Life in 2008, he didn’t have a personal connection to cancer. Back then, he found it was a great way to help others while connecting with peers and community. That changed in 2020, when Norm was diagnosed with leukemia.

Sandra’s Story

A decade after her first diagnosis, Sandra began to suffer from sharp pain in her lower back. She was devastated to learn that the cancer had returned. Despite undergoing several rounds of aggressive chemotherapy, the cancer did not respond. It was then that Sandra and her care team turned to the possibility of a new and emerging treatment.

Karyn’s Story

After many scans and tests, Karyn’s diagnosis was confirmed as stage 3 esophageal cancer. “I was stunned,” she recalls. “I was 59 at the time—just a year older than my dad was when he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. He passed away from it, so I was really scared.” Karyn knew what the road ahead could look like, and how much it would take to face it—but with her family by her side, she wasn’t giving up.