National Volunteer Week (NVW) is April 14-20, 2024. This is a week to recognize and celebrate every volunteer and each contribution they’re making to strengthen inclusivity and wellbeing in our community.
The theme for National Volunteer Week 2024 is Every Moment Matters. Volunteers are fundamental to meeting this challenging moment. By coming together, committing support, and increasing our collective efforts and impact, we contribute exponentially to the quality of life we all strive for. Volunteering matters – moment by moment we can move collectively from surviving to thriving again.
Now more than ever, Every Moment Matters.
Meet 3 of our Dedicated Volunteers:
As someone who prides themselves on living an active lifestyle, my bladder cancer diagnosis in 2016 was a major shock. So, my family encouraged me to join a Bladder Cancer Canada Support Group. Connecting with others facing similar challenges was empowering, including many who had overcome their cancer and were living a wonderful, full life. Inspired, I eagerly registered for Canada Walks for Bladder Cancer. The turnout was astounding, with survivors, patients, families, and medical professionals united to raise awareness and funds. Now, as a walk committee member, I contribute to its success annually. Last year, I completed Peer Support Volunteer training to assist newly diagnosed patients; I enjoy listening to their stories and providing information, so they know they are not alone. This June, I am celebrating seven years cancer-free, and I couldn’t have done it without the support of the Bladder Cancer Canada family.
I started volunteering with Bladder Cancer Canada two years ago after finding a post requesting volunteers for the walk. Despite being unavailable to help with the walk that year, I received a list of volunteer opportunities for the organization and learned about the Data Entry role. I had no direct experience with bladder cancer within my immediate family, but after being informed of the statistics surrounding the disease, I wanted to contribute behind the scenes to establish ease of access to clean data regarding volunteers and Walk participants. As of today, I currently help with organizing the English and French Master Lists of over 4,500 Walk participants and have recently started assisting with the admin portion of the Vancouver Support Group!
Volunteering with Bladder Cancer Canada has provided me with numerous opportunities for growth in various skills, and the coordinators have been extremely supportive throughout my journey. I highly recommend joining the Bladder Cancer Canada volunteer team and helping in any way you can!
My journey with Bladder Cancer Canada began 3 years ago when I was diagnosed with bladder cancer. I experienced many emotional struggles in the early stages of my diagnosis and wanted to find an organization that could provide information about the disease and offer support from others who have gone through what I was going through. I reached out to Bladder Cancer Canada and found myself immersed in a community of passionate individuals dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and advocating for those affected by bladder cancer.
Within Bladder Cancer Canada, there are various avenues for volunteering, but the role of Support Group Lead resonated with me the most. Having walked alongside my mother through her own bladder cancer journey, I understand the importance of having a strong support system.
As a Support Group Lead, I could create a safe and welcoming space where individuals impacted by bladder cancer can come together, share their experiences, and find solace in knowing they are not alone. Whether it’s providing information about treatment options, offering emotional support during difficult times, or simply lending a listening ear, being a Support Group Lead enables me to make a tangible difference in the lives of others facing similar struggles.
Volunteering with Bladder Cancer Canada has been an immensely rewarding experience that has enriched my life in countless ways. Knowing that I am contributing to a cause that is close to my heart fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Each interaction with members of the bladder cancer community reaffirms the importance of the work we do and reinforces my commitment to making a positive impact. Together, we celebrate victories, support each other through challenges, and draw strength from our collective determination to make a difference.
Discover Some Impactful Moments Volunteers Have Contributed to Our Community:
To all BCC volunteers, thank you for the work you do to raise awareness, fund research & support bladder cancer patients and their caregivers. We are forever grateful!
Cheers to you!
