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.
Tootsie’s Story
Tootsie’s first experience with cancer was in 2018. Following a routine surgery to remove her gallbladder, she was shocked to learn that she had cancer. Her future felt uncertain as she underwent numerous tests. Fortunately, doctors determined that the cancer had not spread, and the initial surgery was a success.
Steve’s Story
Steve is a 43-year-old husband and father of two. He’s a high school teacher who pours his energy into the classroom, coaches sports, and makes time to stay active, all while prioritizing his young family. He also lives with blood cancer. Soon after, a biopsy confirmed stage three Hodgkin lymphoma. It was just two weeks before she was supposed to begin university.
Dan’s Story
Many people visit the optometrist expecting to leave with nothing more than an updated prescription, or a new pair of glasses. Dan did the same – he simply wanted a new pair of glasses to help with his computer work. Instead, he left with unexpected concerns. In September of 2024, during a routine eye exam, Dan’s optometrist found swollen optic nerves – a condition that could be serious. Recognizing the concern, Dan was immediately sent for further evaluation. “We want to rule out a brain tumour.”
Loren’s Story
After the birth of their second daughter, Loren and her husband were settling into life as a family of four – two beautiful daughters and precious moments ahead of them. Then, in January 2024, two months after Loren returned to work from maternity leave, she found something concerning during a self-breast exam. Loren made an appointment with her doctor in Killarney who sent her for an urgent mammogram. The time that followed was a blur of appointments. Everything was moving fast until the moment she received a call from the doctor’s office. “In that moment, I knew I had cancer,” said Loren.
Emily’s Story
As she was preparing to start university — looking at dorm rooms, excited for new friendships, and the independence that comes with this next chapter. The momentum was slowed by what she thought was an allergic reaction. Instead, a frightening hospital visit, followed by a series of tests, revealed a large mass in her chest. Soon after, a biopsy confirmed stage three Hodgkin lymphoma. It was just two weeks before she was supposed to begin university.