eNews November 2008 Dear Supporter, The sixth annual Weekend to End Breast Cancer benefiting The Princess Margaret took place September 5-7, 2008, and through the efforts of 4,757 passionate Walkers, crew, volunteers and donors, raised an astounding $13 million! Thanks to the generosity of spirit and support, it was an extraordinary weekend. How does the money raised through our annual WEBC help our research scientists and clinicians at The Princess Margaret? The funds are targeted to breast cancer research, clinical enhancements and survivorship support. But when asked how long we need to keep raising money through events like the WEBC, I only wish I had an easy answer. In fact, my most sincere wish would be that we could conquer cancer and not need to hold fundraising events. But until that day comes, we need more than ever to continue to raise funds. Conquering cancer is a costly venture, both in dollars and time, but real progress is being made. We need to continue to invest in research. We need to continue to invest in leading edge diagnostic equipment. We need to continue to set new standards for breast cancer treatment and care through innovative clinical trials and pilot programs. In mid-September, Dr. Tak Mak and his team at The Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research at The Princess Margaret discovered the role of two ‘cousins’ in the genetic family tree of cancer development, and it’s discoveries like this that will impact future generations as we stride towards conquering cancer. Elsewhere in this newsletter, you will find an interview with Tak about breakthrough breast cancer research. You’ll also read an article about the outstanding work being done through Biobanking. Every year, I look forward to the Weekend to End Breast Cancer, and love chatting with those involved in the Walk. In this e-newsletter, you’ll meet two special Walkers - unforgettable Kitty Cohen, our most senior walker ever at 95 years old, and Leanne Cater, who took an unusual route to achieving her fundraising target. These are just two stories we have highlighted, but we also know that every person who walks has a story, and every story is important to that Walker or donor: sad stories, warm stories, stories of courage and stories of hope. The Weekend to End Breast Cancer is very emotional and very much a life-altering experience. The Weekend to End Breast Cancer represents the best of the human spirit. Why not join us next year? You’ll have the weekend of your life... and yes, stories galore. With sincere thanks, Paul Alofs President & CEO The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation In This Issue Fighting Breast Cancer One Disease At A Time - Are We Making Progress? Dr. Tak Mak outlines advances in breast cancer treatment. If Kitty Can Do It, So Can You! 95-year-old Kitty Cohen was the talk of the 2008 Weekend to End Breast Cancer. A World-Class Biobank Fuels The Research Team With over 200 types of cancer, ‘tumour banks’ are assisting researchers testing new drugs and therapies. Radio-Activity There are many ways in which to raise funds, but Leanne Cater used a unique manner to surpass her goals. Upcoming Events Save these dates! The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation A Member of the University Health Network Tel: 416-946-6560 | Fax: 416-946-6563 Toll Free: 1-866-224-6560 Web: www.pmhf.ca Share My Story | Join Facebook | Donate Now | Privacy Policy | Contact Us | Home