2008 Community Report

Delivering hope in action with caring support programs

The reality of cancer begins with a terrible fear of the unknown.  How bad is it? What will happen to me? The Canadian Cancer Society was there to help.

The Cancer Information Service handled more than 6,800 inquiries from clients in BC and the Yukon who needed reliable, accessible facts; guidance navigating their course after a diagnosis or wanted information about community-based services.

Inquiries are handled confidentially online or on the phone by speaking to a trained, understanding cancer information specialist.

Do I have to fly to a distant cancer treatment centre? 

Just $400,000 in financial aid was distributed to almost 900 individuals with cancer to help with transportation and accommodation expenses.

Will I have to stay at a hotel during treatment?

More 5,600 people stayed at one of the Canadian Cancer Society's economical and welcoming lodges in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria during treatment away from home.

How will I get to the hospital or clinic? 

About 1200 committed drivers who operated in the Society's Volunteer Driver program and the Freemason Cancer Car Program completed more than 62,000 trips in Greater Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, the Interior and on Vancouver Island.

Volunteer drivers covered about 1.6 million kilometers transporting patients. Volunteer drivers collectively spent more than 80,000 hours on the road.

Can I talk to someone who understands what I am going through? 

CancerConnection service matched 1100 individuals in BC and the Yukon with cancer with a caring survivor who had the same illness or similar experiences. A trained volunteer listens, answers questions and provides unique insight based on their own experiences with cancer.

What about a support group?

Almost a thousand people with cancer participated in one of more than 40 support groups which held 350 meetings.
Group facilitators, who are well trained volunteers deliver consistent, high quality services.

How can my child with cancer go to a summer camp?

The internationally recognized and recently accredited unique summer recreation program for children and teens with cancer and their families, Camp Goodtimes, provides an empowering experience in a safe and fun environment.

411 BC children, teens, family members living with cancer spent an unforgettable week at Camp Goodtimes at no cost.

Children and parents enjoy a week long innovative program of outdoor activities, social events, and relaxation away from the stresses caused by cancer and treatment.