Outaouais contre le cancer event raises funds for cancer centre
Tashi Farmilo
On Saturday July 8, the Fondation Santé Gatineau celebrated a major achievement in the fight against cancer in our region. More than 260 participants in the Outaouais contre le cancer event gathered in front of the Centre de cancérologie de Gatineau, a major cancer centre in our region. The Centre de cancérologie de Gatineau is a deeply meaningful place for cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones. They took up a cycling or walking challenge to raise funds for the centre. Thanks to the immense generosity of more than 1,800 donors, a record $260,413 was raised!
Dr. Julie Goudreault, radiation oncologist with CISSSO, and Mélina Morin, oncology technologist, took the floor to explain in concrete terms the impact of these donations on the lives of people living with cancer. This year, the funds raised will go towards three pieces of equipment to optimize screening and reduce waiting times for treatment. Firstly, a push-air transfer system, an essential tool in the process of planning brachytherapy cases. Secondly, an ultrasound for thyroid cancer which will provide better screening and follow-up, faster diagnoses and improve the quality of patient care. Lastly, an additional cardiac ultrasound machine that will enable patients treated for cancers of the blood, bone marrow and lymphatic system cancers to start their treatment more quickly while optimizing their medical visits.
The day began with a warm-up adapted to each challenge provided by Espace Hygie. Once the challenges had been completed, with the mechanical support of Vélo Fix, participants received their medals and were able to enjoy a delicious meal and quenched their thirst thanks to the generosity of Gabriel Pizza, Labatt and La Laiterie de l’Outaouais. The magnificent day ended with a symbolic ceremony in support of those currently battling cancer, in tribute to those who have overcome the disease and in memory of those who have left us. All those present were invited to blow bubbles and make a wish for themselves or for a loved one.
The success of this fundraiser is also the result of exceptional partnerships with committed partners. Desjardins donated $20,000 which was used to offer matching gift opportunities to participants and to support their fundraising efforts. Pixel creative firm produced some magnificent videos that allowed us to demonstrate the impact and importance of this event through the testimonials of our invaluable ambassadors Suzanne Crête and Olivier Duhaime. Rouge fm gave our message - Ensemble, unis, debout, combattons powerlessness! It was thanks to the participation and involvement of all the participants and speakers that we were able to achieve this feat this year.
Since its inception in 2012, this event, previously divided into two components - Marche en Rose and Cyclotour Santé, has successfully raised over $3,014,413. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to our collective ability to combat powerlessness and stand united in our local community. Outaouais contre le cancer is thrilled to announce its return next year, reaffirming its commitment to providing ongoing support to individuals affected by cancer and making a substantial impact in the battle against this disease.
Photo: From left to right: Luc Cadieux, President of the Fondation Santé Gatineau, Suzanne Crête, Outaouais contre le cancer 2023 ambassador, Mélina Morin, oncology technologist at the CISSS de l’Outaouais, Dr. Julie Goudreault, radiation oncologist at the CISSS de l’Outaouais, and Dr. Jean-François Bélanger, oncology technologist at the CISSS de l’Outaouais. (TF) Photo courtesy of the Fondation Santé Gatineau