Your generosity has brought new purpose to Norm’s journey
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.
In July of that year, during the early days of the pandemic, Norm began feeling unwell. It wasn’t long before his concerning symptoms worsened, sending him to the emergency room. He was given a series of blood tests and within only 24 hours, received a cancer diagnosis—acute lymphocytic leukemia.
“It was shocking to hear I had cancer. My best childhood friend had leukemia and passed away at only 20 years old. I was scared.”
Norm needed to start treatment immediately.
The next day, CancerCare Manitoba contacted Norm, admitting him to the hospital to begin what would be many rounds of chemotherapy. It was the height of the pandemic and an isolating time for him. Because of Covid-19 protocols and his compromised immune system, he couldn’t have any visitors. Thankfully, donor-funded research and support programs meant the care Norm required was available when he needed it the most.
The months that followed were difficult for Norm.
After finishing chemotherapy, he faced radiation and then a bone marrow transplant. The treatments took a heavy toll, leaving him weak and unwell, but he never lost his determination to keep going.
Slowly, over the following year, Norm began to regain his strength and move forward in his recovery.
Today, Norm is cancer-free and enjoying life on his farm surrounded by family and with his dog Casey. He recently completed his 17th Challenge for Life, which has new meaning following his personal experience with cancer.
“Having cancer changed my perspective on the importance of donors. I’ve experienced firsthand how deeply donations can touch the lives of patients.”
Your support of cancer research into leukemia and other blood cancers has paved the way for Manitobans like Norm to have better outcomes following a cancer diagnosis. His journey is evidence of the transformative power of your support.
