A message from our national chair
At the beginning of our 75th Anniversary year, I took some time to reflect on how fortunate we are at the Society to have volunteers, staff and donors who are so dedicated to our goal of preventing cancer, saving lives and supporting those living with the disease.
Since 1938, we’ve collaborated with Canadians, government and other organizations to change cancer forever. Today, over 60% of Canadians diagnosed with cancer will survive at least 5 years after their diagnosis. In the 1940s, survival was about 25%. We’re proud to have played a significant role in this progress by funding ground-breaking research and providing information and support to Canadians living with the disease. I encourage you to explore our 75th Anniversary website to learn about some of the key people, places and things that have helped us to have more impact, against more cancers, in more communities, than any other cancer charity in Canada.
It is a privilege for me as national chair of the Society’s Board of Directors to work with 140,000 volunteers, 1,200 staff members and over 1.5 million generous donors across the country. Join us in the fight for life by making the Canadian Cancer Society your charity of choice.
While great progress has been made, much work remains to be done. Last year alone, an estimated 186,000 Canadians heard the words, “You’ve got cancer.” Help save the lives of those who mean the most to you by becoming a volunteer or donor today!
Marc Généreux
Chair, Canadian Cancer Society Board of Directors
A message from our local chair
Some things in life can be accomplished by one person working hard by themselves. Dealing with cancer is not one of those things. It requires hundreds of hard working and dedicated volunteers, supported by a wonderful and caring staff to get the job done. In addition, there are the many donors who generously give of their resources to help the Newfoundland and Labrador Division of the CCS carry on its important work. Our mission can be summed up in few words: the eradication of cancer. A lofty goal? An unrealistic goal? Some might think so. However, this is our goal and our commitment. Through supporting the best research, here at home or across Canada; providing caring, supportive services for those living with cancer during treatment and beyond; and promoting and facilitating a healthier lifestyle for residents of our province, we can accomplish what we have set out to do.
One important emphasis for the Canadian Cancer Society is prevention, an emphasis that can help stop cancer incidence and mortality rates. In NL, and around the world, research continues to show that preventive measures significantly lower the risks of developing many cancers. We are actively involved in several advocacy efforts designed to bring about real and fundamental changes intended to help people be healthier. Our educational programs are also designed to reach as many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as possible. Our staff doesn't sit in their offices waiting for people to call; they go out into the communities across this province to reach, inform, and motivate people to make meaningful changes to their lives. We are committed to continuing and expanding this most important part of our mission.
And for those dealing with cancer, there is Daffodil Place. Since opening Daffodil Place just a few years ago it has become a place of refuge for those who are dealing with one of the most challenging things in their lives. Both cancer patients and their caregivers are greeted with welcoming arms and assured that they have a safe place within which to carry out their difficult treatments. This home-away-from-home has seen over 2200 guests from some 300 different communities from all parts of NL. It continues to symbolize the spirit of those who fight the fight and the army of support that is behind them. To the many staff and volunteers who make this wonderful place fulfill its role – thank you. It really could not be done without you.
Finally, I would like to thank, once again, the many volunteers and donors who give with no expectation of reward. The staff of CCS-NL, who are committed to this work and put in long hours and creative effort to make sure we get the most done with the resources we have at our disposal. It is appreciated. And to my fellow Board members who give graciously of their time and talents – thank you. Together we can Deter, Defeat, and Defy Cancer.
Yours sincerely,
Cyril Abbott