Contributed by Myra Douglas (pictured with family)
I am fervent supporter of Bladder Cancer Canada (BCC) and the wonderful work they accomplish. In 2012 when my mother was diagnosed, I stumbled upon the organization quite by accident. The emotional support they offered to our family during that difficult time was unparalleled.
Being an only child, I was struggling, trying to deal with a parent who had received this diagnosis, and I did not know where to turn. The day before the annual Walk I discovered BCC, so my son and I went out to participate. Numerous people made us feel welcome that day, and provided listening ears as we discussed my mother’s situation.
Following that first walk I contacted BCC Co-founder Jack Moon who was able to speed up her referral to a top Toronto urologist. I will always remember Jack’s compassion and concern. And then one day, when my mother was going through rough times, a beautiful quilt arrived at her home, kindly given to her by a Bladder Cancer Canada volunteer – it was a caring touch. I accessed the online forum regularly during that period, and was able to receive further support there.
Sadly, my mother passed away in 2013, but our entire family has participated wholeheartedly in the Walk every year since then, aiming to raise as much as possible for the ongoing work of BCC. Even my daughter who lives in Germany walks there on the same date.
When my family donates, we know that the money is not being eaten up by administration costs, but rather is put to good use, directly benefitting the patients and their families. Awareness is a key component towards the fight against bladder cancer, and I commend the countless volunteers and staff for their tireless work. It is also the responsibility of each of us to spread the word, because surprisingly many people suffering from bladder cancer don’t know that there is an organization dedicated solely to this disease. I am thrilled to see the ongoing growth of BCC, but they need our help to continue their work. BCC relies 100% on support from the public and receives no government funding.
If there is one charity that truly deserves your support, financial and otherwise, BCC is certainly it! This year, I urge you to consider making a contribution that is within your means to BCC. Every dollar counts.
Online here
By phone: 1-866-674-8889
By mail: Download a pledge card here
