March 12, 2007
Asian Contributors to Canadian Cancer Society Campaign

Last Saturday I attended the third annual Universe of Hope Gala, organized by the Canadian Cancer Society, B.C. and Yukon division. Since its inception in 1938, the Canadian Cancer Society has spread information about the early warning signs of cancer to the Canadian public. At that time there was growing concern among doctors that people were not aware of the signs of cancer. By the time people consulted a doctor, the cancer was advanced and difficult to treat.

Over the years the Canadian Cancer Society has led the way in cancer control by focusing on prevention, advocacy, research, information and support. The Canadian Cancer Society provides Canadians with information to make healthy lifestyle choices and decrease their chances of developing cancer. As the largest charitable funder of cancer research, the Canadian Cancer Society works with the National Cancer Institute of Canada to effectively allocate funds to cancer research projects. More importantly, the Canadian Cancer Society offers individual and group support programs for cancer patients, caregivers, families and friends so no one has to face this disease alone.

The society's annual fundraising events — the daffodil sale and the telethon — are coming up, and the Asian community has been very active in supporting these efforts. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the Asian campaign's contributors: Benjamin Tsang and Ian Cheung, Diversity Gala chair and vice-chair; Johnny Fong, honorary patron; Buddha's Light International Association in Vancouver; Cathay Lions Club; Fairchild television and radio; and staff Titania Chan and Jim Kwong for their tireless efforts to make cancer history.