An annual fundraiser supporting cancer research in Windsor-Essex will help launch a local program creating a weapon in the battle.
The Windsor Regional Cancer Centre kicked off the 2023 edition of the Grow On Windsor campaign on Thursday. The proceeds from this year will go toward the launch of a new Stem Cell Transplant Program at the cancer centre.
Cancer survivor Joal McMahon is serving as one of the ambassadors for 2023. He spoke at the kickoff event about how convenient it was to get treatment close to home.
"I have received tremendous care during treatment in the last year. I was fortunate to be able to be close to home, still pick my son up from his bus, and attend his hockey games," said McMahon. "I couldn’t imagine having to face cancer, and then having to face the emotional distress of going away for treatment."
The other ambassadors are Rob Petroni, Sean McConnell, and Steve Gregetz.
With the new program in Windsor, patients with leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma will have a chance to get treatment in their own backyard rather than having to spend time in a hospital in London, Toronto, or Hamilton.
Partners in the campaign include the Windsor Spitfires, St. Clair College, Ground Effects, and Baker Tilly.
To date, the Grow On Windsor campaign has raised $2.2-million to support cancer treatment in the region.
Complete information about the fundraiser can be found on its official webpage.
