Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
AN ONLINE WO
IN
R
CE
AN
C
E
TH
SUMMER 2015
Safety
Net
A GROWING
CONCERN
Why farm-fresh
local food is gaining
ground with chefs
MYTH BUSTERS
PLUS:
Social Media and
Clinical Trials;
Cancer and Couples;
Disease-Fighting
Menu Items;
and more
PM#40020055
24th Annual
TOM BAKER
CANCER CENTRE
Golf Classic
HOLE-IN-ONE
PRIZES
2 VEHICLES
CRUISE VACATION
JEWELRY AND MORE!
CONTENTS
COVER STORY: Mary Beth Eckersley has taken her cancer
journey online
SUMMER SPOTLIGHT
CANCER IN AN ONLINE WORLD
18
46
DEPARTMENTS
4 OUR LEAP
6
11
28
11
12
FOREFRONT
Mastectomies and cancer; Anti-cancer foods;
Barrhead gives back; Pint-sized poets pen book;
Butternut squash risotto recipe; and more
NEXT GEN
Young researcher is studying chemo brain
BODY MIND
27 PATIENT ENGAGEMENT
42
34 WHY I DONATE
41
CORPORATE GIVING
Mundare restauranteurs make fundraising
for cancer research a family affair
50 MY LEAP
22 LIFELINES OF COMMUNICATION
13 SMART EATS
14
18
FEATURES
28 LOVERS ROCK
42 TOP JOB
46 RESEARCH ROCKSTAR
summer 2015
Were Changing to
Better Serve Albertans
TRUSTEES
Angela Boehm, Chair
Calgary
Gary Bugeaud
Calgary
Steven Dyck
Lethbridge
Paul Grundy
Edmonton (ex-officio)
Jordan Hokanson
Edmonton
Katie McLean
Calgary
John J. McDonald
Edmonton
Andrea McManus
Calgary
Brent Saik, Vice Chair
Sherwood Park
Sandy Slator
Edmonton
Greg Tisdale
Calgary
Its true: change is the only constant. At the Alberta Cancer Foundation,
that saying fits us well. As we usher in a new summer season, we look
back at how far weve come the last few years. In 2011, we added a new
CEO to our roster and had a new sense of urgency to make life better for
Albertans facing cancer. At the time, we already had the distinction of
being the provinces largest philanthropic investor in cancer research,
investing millions in research, enhanced care, prevention and screening
every year.
But we wanted to do more. We focused on impact investing, where
decisions about what to fund are based not only on scientific or academic
considerations, but also on the possible outcomes for patients and the
time frame for seeing results. The goal: a shift in culture from a fundraising body to one that took an active role in achieving results by helping
patients, researchers, clinicians and industry work together to do things
in a new way.
So we developed a framework to measure the impact of various initiatives and to understand how to re-evaluate them on an ongoing basis. We
asked ourselves, would an initiative potentially benefit a large part of the
population? Or would it have a big impact on a smaller number of people? How many lives and how much money could be saved if various
types of cancers were detected earlier? How much would it cost the
health-care system to invest in new diagnostic technologies? What are
the investment opportunities that resonate with donors? How should
risks, such as failure to get results, be understood and
Our new patient partnership measured? This may sound like a logical way to operate, but traditionally it wasnt happening to that level of
strategy means we rely on
detail in most philanthropic organizations.
patients to help us underWe are already noticing results. One example is in
stand how treatments work
the area of personalized medicine for treating breast
in real clinical practice with
cancer. Through its selection process, the foundation is
investing in research on biological markers of the disreal people.
ease that aims to understand which treatments will
work best for cancer patients with a particular biomarker. It will also provide appropriate treatment to those patients who will benefit and provide
more appropriate treatments to other patients, avoiding unnecessary
treatments, improving their quality of life.
We are also listening to the people who know cancer best: the patients.
Our new patient partnership strategy means we rely on patients to help
us understand how treatments work in real clinical practice with real
people. You can read more about how that might work on page 32.
So yes, change can be a good thing and we will continue to embrace it
as long as it means we are making life better for Albertans. We cant wait
to share that progress with you.
Read the full story about our framework here: upfront.pwc.com/
trust/695-deep-impact
Myka Osinchuk, CEO
Alberta Cancer Foundation
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
TOGETHER
WERE CREATING
MORE MOMENTS
FOR ALBERTANS
FACING CANCER
Sticking to It
University of Alberta researcher Andrew Mason proves long-contested link
Andrew Mason, a researcher and
summer 2015
the links between HBRV and breast cancer stalled in the 1980s, when HIV
emerged. As well, other liver disease
researchers have been unable to detect
HBRV and claimed no connection with
PBC. This is often how science works,
Mason says. So we used next generation sequencing to show the virus inserted into the DNA of damaged biliary
cells, and its hard to do that ... But what
else do you do? You dont give up.
Masons work has also found that
patients with liver disease are responsive to anti-retroviral therapy. His
researchs publication is just one step
along the way to proving the link. His
team is now completing a randomized
controlled trial that they hope will help
lead to further proof of the link. All the
answers are still slow coming, but
Masons already proved hes a patient
researcher. Funding for his research
was partly provided through the Alberta
Cancer Foundation, the Canadian Liver
Foundation and Canadian Institutes of
Health Research.
myleapmagazine.ca
taking a look at diet as a possible countermeasure. Heres a sampling of healthy ingredients with cancer-prevention properties,
and a little about what makes these super foods so, well, super.
Soy. From soybeans to soy sauce, miso to
tofu, soy contains isoflavones, which are
anti-cancer compounds. Experts recommend about 50 grams per day of whole
food, like edamame or dry roasted soybeans. There may be some
links between soy and a reduction in breast and prostate cancers,
especially if consumption starts before puberty.
Garlic. Sure, they help with warding off vampires, but
summer 2015
2
Hands Down: With your
palms together and your
fingers pointing down,
gently pull your hands
up, holding for 10
seconds. Do this stretch
while standing.
3
Within Reach: While sitting in a
chair, extend your arms while
interlocking your fingers, turning
your palms away from you. Hold
stretch for 10-20 seconds.
5
Lean on Me: While standing,
place your arms bent behind
your head, grabbing opposite
elbows. Lean from side to
side, holding each stretch for
8-10 seconds.
6
Up and Away: While
standing with your
fingers interlaced and
above your head, stretch
palms upward and hold
for 10-15 seconds.
summer 2015
7
Shake, Rattle and Roll:
Standing with your arms at
your sides, roll your
shoulders up and down,
turning frontwards and
then backwards. Repeat
three times, holding for
three to five seconds each.
myleapmagazine.ca
INGREDIENTS:
1 small butternut squash, peeled and
chopped
1/2 a large onion, chopped
A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
(plus more for topping)
4 to 5 cups water or low-sodium
vegetable broth
1 cup short grain risotto rice
1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds
(optional)
1 Tbsp olive oil
DIRECTIONS:
Heat the water or broth in a small pot.
In a separate large pot, heat the oil and
add butternut squash. Cook over
medium heat for about seven minutes
and add the chopped onion and parsley.
Angelic Ascent
Bryan Mudryk has angels watching over
him. And youd be right.
Created by one of his best friends,
Bryans Angels was founded in 2011 by
Sheyanne Levall, who rallied Mudryk supporters to raise money in his honour, and
for others touched by cancer. The goal that
first year was to see participants climb 200
sets of 202 steps, both ways. The Angels
completed 220 sets and raised $22,000.
The group, which has grown to 25 members from 11, was working to complement
Mudryks own fundraising, for his annual
golf tournament in Boyle, Alberta.
For the past four years, the Angels have
hosted A Night with Bryans Angels
red-carpet party at the Lexus dealership in
west Edmonton, and a stair-climb challenge on the bank behind Edmontons
Royal Glenora Club, both to raise funds for
the Cross Cancer Institute via the Alberta
Cancer Foundation. The Angels events
Alber ta Cancer Foundation
summer 2015
10
Wedded Gifts
Steps of Hope
was among a group of 10 walkers calling itself The Women in Action this
May, as they trekked 70 kilometres
over two days and rough terrain to
raise money for breast cancer. Despite
scores of aching muscles and blisters,
the group arrived in Igloolik on the
evening of May 5 a day earlier than
Mayor Mary Wilman
they expected. The guides travelling
with the women had estimated it would take the participants
five to seven days to complete the snowy trek, the groups third
bi-annual event.
Commissioner of Nunavut Edna Elias led the group, which
had to contend with knee-high and blowing snow, making the
trek slow going at times. This is the third Walk of Hope with
fundraising benefitting the Cross Cancer Institute via the
Alberta Cancer Foundation. Past walks have raised more than
$180,000 for breast cancer research all told, while this years
walk has raised $50,000. The goal for 2015 is $100,000.
To donate, or for more information, visit: albertacancer.ca/
womeninaction2015
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
summer 2015
11
Altered State
With medical merits from nausea reduction to pain
relief, hypnosis is not just a stage gimmick
BY LINDA E. CARLSON
summer 2015
cancer patients published between 1999 and 2006 concluded that hypnosis is an
effective means of reducing pain and anxiety without side effects, while allowing
patients to play an active role in their comfort and well-being. A more recent review
in 2013 summarized the use of hypnotherapy in cancer prevention, treatment and
survivorship. It concluded that there is evidence that hypnosis can be helpful in
managing distress in women undergoing invasive diagnostic tests for breast cancer, and for other diagnostic procedures such as lumbar puncture or bone marrow
aspiration, particularly in children.
During cancer treatment, one area with the most evidence for hypnosis efficacy
is for managing nausea and vomiting, side effects of chemotherapy drugs. Preliminary studies have also investigated its efficacy in treating fatigue related to
radiation therapy, hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms in breast cancer
survivors, showing potential for benefit.
In general, the evidence for using hypnosis for the treatment of pain and nausea
in cancer care is strong, but other areas require further trials. If you are interested in trying hypnosis for any of these symptoms, contact the psychosocial and
supportive care departments at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre or Cross Cancer
Institute, as some of the counsellors are trained in hypnosis for symptom management. Be sure any therapist you see is a member of the Canadian Federation of
Clinical Hypnosis Alberta Society (clinicalhypnosis.ca/ab_index.html), which
guarantees they have the proper training.
myleapmagazine.ca
On the Move
Eatingwellatworkisamatterofplanning
aheadandchoosingtherightfoods
BY KAROL SEKULIC
Dinner is Served
If eating out with co-workers, choose restaurants offering healthy choices. Once there,
try to:
Reduce the serving size by asking for a half-portion, share with others or
save the leftovers for another meal.
Choose dishes that are steamed, grilled or roasted.
Order your sauces and dressings on the side and use only small amounts
of these.
Order vegetables or a salad as a side dish.
Rethink That Drink
Drinks with added sugar, such as coffee with syrups or regular pop, add extra calories
and do not help you feel full. Here are some tips for choosing healthy drinks:
Drink water throughout the day: Bring a water bottle to work to stay hydrated
throughout the workday.
Lighten up your coffee or tea: Reduce the cream and sugar you add to your
coffee or tea. Consider switching to lower fat milk.
Shrink your drink: If you have beverages that contain sugar or fat (like soft drinks,
specialty coffees, sports drinks or energy drinks), choose a smaller size.
Meet your fluid needs: Get the recommended nine to 12 cups (two to three
litres) for adults of fluids per day. Water, milk, tea and coffee count towards this.
Remember that adults should limit caffeine to no more than 400 milligrams per
day. This is equal to two to three cups of coffee (550-750 millilitres) of fluid per day.
Remember that making healthy choices at meal and break times is important to
staying fuelled throughout your shift.
To promote healthy eating at work with your co-workers, participate in a fun fourweek free healthy eating challenge! Visit albertahealthservices.ca and enter healthy
eating challenge toolkit in the search box to find everything you need to run a healthy
eating challenge at work.
Karol Sekulic is a registered dietitian with Alberta Health Services who has expertise and interest
in the areas of weight management and nutrition communications.
summer 2015
13
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
We brought your questions to medical and fitness experts
about staffing a cancer centre, the benefits of core exercise and
practising yoga during cancer treatment
BY LYNDSIE BOURGON AND SHELLEY WILLIAMSON
summer 2015
What are the benefits of doing coreonly exercises, and what should I
start with?
Your core consists of pelvic floor muscles, abdominal
muscles, the diaphragm, deeper-layer back muscles and even
the muscles that run along your spine to help it keep upright.
According to Patricia Maybury, the owner of Calgarys
Fitness Table core strength studio, strengthening your core
leads to lots of benefits, like:
Flat, strong low abs (and the ability to pull them in, not just
zip them into your jeans)
Decreased lower back pain
Better posture, which improves your energy and mood (and
even makes you appear taller and more confident)
myleapmagazine.ca
summer 2015
15
7TH ANNUAL
CLIMBOFHOPERUN.CA
SPECIAL REPORT:
CANCER IN AN
ONLINE WORLD
22
18
24
LIFELINES OF COMMUNICATION
Medical and fitness professionals are taking their
expertise online
summer 2015
17
here were times when chemotherapy made Mary Beth Eckersley too sick to
read or watch TV. The sheer exhaustion made it impossible to focus for more than
minutes at a time.
But even at her worst, she could blog. Id do a couple of lines, then stop, she says. It
fit what I could do at the time. For Eckersley, this was a godsend. Shed been diagnosed
with stage three breast cancer in 2012 her second bout with cancer, as shed survived
cervical cancer 30 years earlier. But back then, her treatment had only consisted of minor
surgery. This time, she faced multiple invasive surgeries and chemo. This was a whole
other ball game, she says.
18
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
summer 2015
19
Like many cancer patients, Eckersley started a share their deepest feelings about their cancer. Those who expressed their feelings
blog to write about her experience. I decided Id in writing felt a reduction in their cancer symptoms. A 2008 study by Georgetown
make the experience as positive as possible, and University researchers showed patients with leukemia and lymphoma felt much
put as much of it in the light as I could, she says. better after treatments if they engaged in expressive writing immediately before.
Its the darkness that scares us. She also hoped it
Of course, many people Eckersley included dont want to write just for
might help other patients at earlier stages of their themselves. The good news is that sharing writing publicly may have some specific
journey. So, for the last three years, shes logged on to health benefits. A 2013 study of troubled youth by researchers at the University
her blog I Will Fight For Me
of Haifa, in Israel, found that
(iwillfightforme.blogspot.
I decided Id make the experience as positive as blogging was more effective
ca) to share everything
than journalling for boosting
possible, and put as much of it in the light as
from medical treatments, to
self-esteem and lessening
I could, says Mary Beth Eckersley.
participating in the Enbridge
social anxiety.
Ride to Conquer Cancer,
But its not always easy to
to her recent decision to become a certified Aqua Fit put yourself out there. For Eckersley, it was a bit nerve-wracking to post her first
instructor.
blog entry. I think I put up the first one at 3 a.m. and just let it go, she says. But I
Research has proven that there are many found it really cathartic to type it and put it out there. It made it all less scary.
therapeutic benefits to expressive writing. A regular
Eckersleys initial worries about privacy faded as she went through treatment.
writing practice can reduce stress, improve memory Now, she was encountering an endless stream of doctors and nurses who knew
and sleep patterns, boost immune cell activity and all about her. After a while, she stopped feeling self-conscious about exposing her
even speed healing after surgery. For cancer patients, chest in an exam room or sharing her experience online. You think your life is
putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard can private until you get cancer, she says.
ease the miseries of treatment. In a 2014 study from
Like Eckersley, Mike Lang went online for support after being diagnosed with
the University of Texas, patients with kidney cancer Hodgkins lymphoma a few years ago. At the time, he was an avid outdoorsman who
were asked to either to write about neutral topics or worked as a ski patroller and led adventure trips with his wife, Bonnie. He was also
20
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
called Caring Bridge (caringbridge.org) which allows people with health issues to
blog about their health journeys, without worrying about it being read by anyone
other than their loved ones.
Many of us assume no one will be interested in our tiny corner of cyberspace
in fact, thats what the couple assumed when Bonnie started a blog to keep friends
and family updated about Mikes treatment. We didnt think anyone but our
families would read the blog, he says. We were surprised over the years that all of
a sudden there were thousands of people reading it.
summer 2015
21
Lifelines of
Communication
Medical and fitness professionals
are taking their expertise online
BY SHELLEY NEWMAN
ven if you dont know social media lingo, you should know a heck of vides presentations and training to help other oncologists
incorporate social media into their practices. Obviously,
a lot of people are talking about breast cancer online on any given day.
On Monday, March 23, the Breast Cancer Social Media (#BCSM) Twitter chat its not going to be for everybody, she says. But, theres
had three million impressions, 734 tweets and 61 participants. Between 50 and 70 people a growing number who are seeing the importance of it
typically participate in the weekly chats,
and are making time to use social
Social media allows access to so
which have seen a growing, global audience
media as a way to communicate
since starting in 2011.
many people worldwide, and thats and collaborate.
Dr. Deanna Attai, assistant clinical proShes seen incredible global colpositive for young adult cancer
laboration happen in real time. I was
fessor of surgery at the University of Calat a conference in San Francisco and
ifornia, Los Angeles and president of the
survivors, says Lisa Belanger.
tweets from that event were transAmerican Society of Breast Surgeons, is a
long-time co-moderator of #BCSM and has seen the growth of this online breast cancer lated into five or six languages, so people from around the
group. BCSM is intended to provide guidance, education and support for people, she globe were able to learn from the information, Attai says.
explains. Weve had such a positive response and have witnessed the development of a We have an obligation to share knowledge it shouldnt
just be kept in the confines of a conference room.
real community.
Sharing knowledge and information is also a fundamenWhile Attai wasnt initially involved with the chats, she has brought a medical perspective to the discussions since. There are times when a physicians voice is needed, tal goal of the Alberta Prostate Cancer Research Initiative,
she says. When people are discussing topics, we have the chance to correct myths and and this led them to create a website that provides resourcmisperceptions in real time. We stick to the science as much as we can and encourage es for patients, clinicians, scientists, partners and donors.
Our goal is to create a dynamic website that will evolve
people to speak to their own doctors if they need specific information.
In addition to her work with patients and colleagues through #BCSM, Attai also pro- over time, says Catalina Vasquez, director of the Alberta
22
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
Power of ConneCtion
Dr. Lisa Belanger, founder of Knights Cabin Cancer Retreat, has also
observed the power of social media in helping cancer patients and survivors. As part of her PhD, Belanger connected with young adult cancer survivors and discovered how ideally suited this group is for social media.
Social media allows access to so many people worldwide, and thats
positive for young adult cancer survivors, says Belanger. They have
unique questions about things like whether or not they should tell their
future partners or employers theyve had cancer. When you can create
relationships and talk about these topics through social media, it
becomes empowering to realize that other people are going through the
same thing.
In her role with Knights Cabin, Belanger works with people who are, on
average, 50 years old. For this group, shes observed Facebook is a good
connecting and motivating tool. We create private Facebook groups for
people who participate in the retreats, and thats where the interactions
happen, she explains. When people provide updates and receive positive encouragement from others for their accomplishments, it can be a
powerful way to connect.
Also an exercise physiologist, Belanger uses social media to remind
people about the importance of exercise for your overall health even
when you have cancer. Through social media, people might learn about
someone with the same type of cancer who competed in a dragon boat
race, for example, and that information might encourage them to become
more active, she explains. Seeing other people do something makes it
more normal and can even encourage us to make a change. Its so interesting to consider the positive personal changes that can come from an
online cancer community.
summer 2015
23
24
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
Too Good
TO BE TRUE
t happens every day: cancer patients searching for answers online stumble
across several websites promoting a previously unknown treatment for cancer.
The patients get excited and bring the treatment to their doctors attention, only
to have their hopes dashed when they find out the so-called miracle cure hasnt been
scientifically proven.
Dr. John Mackey, director of the Clinical Trial Unit at the Cross Cancer Institute
and professor of oncology at the University of Alberta, knows all too well what can
happen when patients get overly enthusiastic about incomplete information on
cancer treatments. He and his team recently published a paper about the chemical
DCA, and how clinical trial work must be done before how it works in cancer
patients can be understood.
For decades, DCA has been used in patients with mitochondrial disease, which
means they are born with a problem in the way they generate energy in their cells.
DCA has been found to be helpful in children with this condition, but another U of A
scientist has discovered that DCA also has some anti-cancer effects when tested in a
laboratory. At that time, at the U of A and the Cross Cancer Institute, clinical trials
of DCA were studied in patients with incurable cancer. These were early stage trials
to determine how safe this drug was. But they did not compare DCA to standard
treatment, says Mackey. Its too early to say whether DCA will become a cancer
drug. Despite the lack of information about how well it works in cancer, many patients
summer 2015
25
Mackey recommends that patients look for information on the National Cancer
There is unlimited information online about science,
cancer and various so-called treatments for disease. Institutes website, cancer.gov. The website describes different cancers for both a
Theres also a wealth of reliable, scientifically-backed layperson and a professional, and the information is written with the patient or paresearch about cancer, clinical trials and proven treat- tients family in mind. Its updated when there are advances in things like cancer rements. So how are patients supposed to know the dif- search or palliative care, but only if the information passes the website committees
ference between a website with solid information and approval. Its great information, its up-to-date and there are world-class people
who put a lot of effort into making sure that information is available, says Mackey.
one selling snake oil?
Patients usually go online for information about It freely admits that we dont cure all cancer patients and that, unfortunately for
their cancer in the time between their diagnosis and too many of our patients, we dont have effective treatments. The website also points
first clinic visit, says Mackey. Its usually triggered people to clinical trials. Its ideally suited for people who want to know about their
when they are first diagnosed. In that gap period, we cancer and state-of-the-art treatment; it explains types of cancer, grades, treatments,
often see patients who dont have all the information at side effects and clinical trials.
For Albertans, Dr. Mackey recommends another good resource: albertacancertheir fingertips turn to the Internet, he says.
Still, this reaction to a diagnosis isnt new in the last clincialtrials.ca, a website that launched in the fall of 2014. It lists all of the can20 years. Before the Internet, there were books and cer clinical trials currently happening in Alberta, and is intended for patients and
scientific literature, says Mackey. At the end of the researchers.
Caulfield says that the question of whether the Internet hurts more than it helps is
day, the Internet is a wonderful tool, but a tool that is
used for good or for evil. Its difficult if youre not an a tough one. I love the fact that there is so much good health information available
expert in the field to know if its a reliable source with now. With open access, its becoming so you can access really good science informagood information. Theres good stuff out there and bad tion, says Caulfield. Globally, Im glad that these options are available to patients
and to the public. And, I think in the long term, it will be a good thing. However, the
stuff out there.
Now its easier than ever for misinformation and downsides are significant and they cant be ignored. But you can think of strategies to
myths to spread much faster than the truth. The mitigate those potential harms.
The number one strategy Caulfield suggests while researching online is skeptiInternet allows these things to take flight much more
quickly. I think that is a big part of the story, says Tim- cism. I think a healthy dose of skepticism should always be your starting point; that
othy Caulfield, an ethicist, author and professor at the should be how you engage the Internet, in general, he says. You want to look for
U of A. The Internet amplifies peoples cognitive bias- independent sources of information. Often that is hard to figure out, but, generally
es that we already have. So if you want to find a website speaking, you can think of things like universities, governments, professional organiabout shark cartilage [as a treatment for cancer], youre zations, science organizations, those sorts of things.
Patients also need to gather a body of information on a topic, instead of just relygoing to find it. It can confirm these pre-conceived notions that you have, even if there is no science behind ing on a single piece of information. Patients should never get too excited about one
study. And that often is what hapthese pre-conceived notions.
pens on the Internet, says CaulThat doesnt mean that patients
The Internet is a big advance for
field. Health is a complicated isshouldnt consult the Internet for incancer patients. If they have a bit of
sue and, in general, patients should
formation about their disease. It just
means they have to be smart about
direction, they can obtain world-class look for a body of information on a
topic, a body of literature or a body
it. The Internet is a big advance for
information that is helpful for the
of research.
cancer patients. If they have a bit of
patient and the treating physician,
Noting if a website is selling a
direction, they can obtain worldproduct using only testimonials
class information that is helpful for
says Dr. John Mackey.
or health claims that havent been
the patient and the treating physibacked up by proper science is just one way you can tell that the information on the
cian, says Mackey.
The Internet plays a number of roles in our lives, site is generally no good. If testimonials are being used to sell a product or to prosays Caulfield. Its human nature to look not only for mote something, or to suggest a health strategy, you can, in general, ignore them. Tesinformation, but also a connection online. There is no timonials are not good research, says Caulfield. The other thing patients should be
doubt that people are turning to the Internet more and wary of is websites that claim one particular treatment, be it stem cells, genetics or
more. And they are increasingly using things like social shark cartilage, will work as a treatment for a host of ailments. Thats very rare that
media Twitter, Facebook to build community. Its one intervention other than exercise would benefit a whole different range of difbecoming one of the primary sources of health infor- ferent kinds of biological things going on, says Caulfield.
While Mackey is wary of the wild promises the Internet can make to cancer pamation, says Caulfield.
While theres nothing wrong with searching for a tients, he believes some patients are learning to distinguish between what is real and
community online, patients looking for health infor- what is hype. Ive been working here for 20 years at the Cross Cancer Institute. Each
mation would do well to be cautious. Websites are also year, people are relying more and more on the Internet. What I think is reassuring is
used to market products and to build hype on particu- that people are becoming more Internet savvy, says Mackey. My impression is that
most patients are smart and are increasingly aware that just because they found it
lar bits of health information, says Caulfield.
So is it best for cancer patients to avoid the Internet on the Internet, doesnt make it true. So they are coming to their health-care team to
and its myriad of confusing, conflicting information check out whether things make sense or not. I think there is an appropriate level of
skepticism as people become more comfortable with the Internet.
altogether?
26
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
Portal Patience
Online resources are a way for patients
to share the cancer experience but they
bring up the question of security
BY JESSICA DOLLARD
Two of my co-workers recently disclosed to me that
they dont have Facebook accounts, and I am now
sitting in judgment. I am not proud of it, but I am.
My first thought was, They must be the only two
left standing! As they listed their reasons for not
succumbing to social media, I could hear a little
voice inside me saying: Keep up with the times and
Get with the program.
It was a taste of what patients and families experience when considering their healthcare and feeling
frustrated with our inability to meet technological
needs. Over the years I have heard many requests
from our patient and family advisors for a patient
portal, and have even heard our advisors say, Keep
up with the times. A portal would include an online
profile where a patient can look up appointments, see
test results, provide information and updates to their
providers, ask questions, access a navigation tool to
help them find the location of their next appointment
and even access patient education materials. To me,
a non-techie but not-quite-Luddite, this seems like a
reasonable request.
But this is one of those instances when I am reminded that my job in engagement requires some
degree of systems intelligence. In order to broker the
conversation between patients, families and the organization, I need to be able to understand the system
implications behind such a seemingly simple request.
The first obstacle is the dangerous assumption
that all patients and families have access to a computer. Some people might prefer regular mail. One
thing I have learned is that the only generalization we
can make when it comes to patient experience is that
patients and families would like the opportunity to
personalize their experiences as much as possible. In
receiving our care, patients are vulnerable, and being
able to have some control over that care can mean a
lot to them. This means that, if some patients want paper records and some want high-tech apps, we need
to have two functional systems. Dont throw out those
postage stamps just yet!
Heres the next piece in a complex puzzle: our
health care organization has more than 80 systems
all containing pieces of secure patient information and some of the integral patient information is
housed in the private sector too. I am told by my IT de-
partment that, even if we could get all of the information on one system, it would
be tricky to display it in a logical, coherent manner, like a portal.
But the most compelling obstacle might be surprising: security and privacy.
Recent security breaches shared in the media remind me that once information
is available online, it can be stolen. Our teams of IT gurus are always working on
keeping information safe but this is a key consideration when thinking about creating a patient portal.
In terms of privacy, we would need to consider whether all medical professionals would have access to see all patient information. What about a proxy login
can family members or those with power of attorney see a patients data? A
patient may want a sensitive test done or for his or her diagnosis to be kept completely private and only available on a need-to-know basis. But once we have the
information all together, how do we control access?
There are many unanswered questions, yet I can hear one of my wise patient advisors saying as she reads this: If the U.S. can figure it out, I know we can, too. This
is truly the beauty of engagement: seeing the whole picture and all of the pieces of
the puzzle. And a little dash of encouragement and patience goes a long way, too.
If I were a betting person, I would say that we will have a patient portal
before my co-workers ever join the world of social media. Now that is something
I can like.
Jessica Dollard is the patient-centred experience advisor on the Calgary Cancer Project. As a
consultant in engagement and patient experience, as well as an actor, film and theatre producer,
programmer, medical skills trainer and executive certified coach, she brings a creative background
to this work.
summer 2015
27
Lovers
28
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
ROCK
BY ROBBIE JEFFREY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENN HAIG
summer2015
29
transparent, and still is, she says. We love each other mad- childhood, Tammy was an off-and-on stay-at-home mom, running a daycare at home
ly and were supportive of each other no matter what were for six years as a young mother and later working with Sobeys for seven years. With both
going through. Above their bed they have a printout of the of them tackling a cancer diagnosis at the same time, they feared that their children
lyrics to All About our Love, a cut from English soft-rock would worry about them too much, that they couldnt be there to provide their children
with the mental support theyd need. When youve got kids and grandkids and you dont
singer Sades Lovers Rock album.
Geoff began driving a bus for the City of Edmonton in know what the future holds, the uncertainty is pretty scary, says Geoff.
The doctors scheduled the couples chemotherapy so
1975, when he was just 23;
they could support each other as much as possible. But
2015 marks his 40th year.
We took the biggest sigh of relief
the financial burden grew. Each trip to the Cross Cancer
I love interacting with the
because
we knew she was going to
Institute from their home in Morinville added 85 kilomepeople, he says. With my
seniority I had the choice of
help and we werent going to have to tres to the odometer, parking four times each treatment
week wasnt cheap and the cost of prescriptions were
any shift, so I always startstruggle, Tammy Wegrich says.
through the roof. Though their chemotherapy was coved at 4:30 in the morning.
ered, Tammy and Geoff had to pay out-of-pocket for some
But Geoffs last day of work
was when he discovered he needed open heart surgery, in of the cost of the drugs that relieve the chemos side effects. A generic anti-nausea drug
2010. For the longest time, he missed the job, he says, add- cost around $400, and one fill wasnt enough. Without any savings to fall back on, they
ing but Im in a good place now. On long-term disability, quickly exhausted Tammys RRSPs from her time at Sobeys. As the financial and emohes still an employee receiving a paycheque, though hes tional toll of two cancer trials accumulated, Life almost stopped, it seemed, says Geoff.
unsure if he can ever return to work. He still has shortness of breath; his health is up in the air, Tammy says. After Tammys diagnosis and surgery for colon cancer in 2011, Geoff and
His white blood cell numbers tend to creep back peren- Tammy attended a class that prepares patients and their families for the intricacies of
nially, and hell show symptoms like bruising and sweats. living through chemotherapy treatments. While attending that class in early 2012, they
His numbers are just far enough below the maximum cell were put in touch with Teresa Skarlicki, a social worker with the Cross Cancer Institute
count, however, to put them in the normal range, so who, as a liaison, also administers the Patient Financial Assistance Program (PFAP),
technically hes in remission. They were hoping he might designed to help cancer patients to deal with the extra financial burdens of a cancer
get five years of remission, if he was lucky, says Tammy. diagnosis. I think everybody wishes they could shoulder the burden without asking for
help, but I felt like it was more of a burden that we could deal with at the time, Tammy
We just take every day as it comes.
Tammy and Geoff have three grown children, the says. Skarlicki immediately started working with the Wegrichs to help them cover
youngest of whom is now 26, plus three grandchildren expenses. We took the biggest sigh of relief because we knew she was going to help
and a fourth on the way in July. Throughout her kids and we werent going to have to struggle, Tammy adds. Teresa was extremely warm,
30
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
not buy that drug because I dont have $20. I dont know what Im going to do.
Skarlicki says that often patients find it more difficult to deal with the financial aspects
of cancer treatment than the medical aspects. She describes seeing patients whose body
language makes evident that theyre stretched beyond their capacity to cope, and its not
for their health but for their bank accounts. If you can give them a little bit of help, a lot
of that stress melts away and they can go forward and focus on trying to make it through
cancer, because it takes all of your internal resources to make it through treatment, she
says. Ive personally journeyed with people who didnt have to worry about their finances, but I saw the toll [cancer] took on their lives emotionally, physically, psychologically
and spiritually. Couples are usually loath to discuss finances even in good health; when
anxiety of a cancer diagnosis is looming, the stress is compounded. When the anxiety of
a cancer diagnosis is looming, the stress is compounded. With Skarlickis help, we could
concentrate on getting better, says Geoff.
Today, Tammy gets her blood work done every three months and is doing great. And
though his numbers tend to creep back into risky territory, Geoff is happy to be in remission. Its been a long road for the last six years, but between him and me theres light at
the end of the tunnel, Tammy says.
Skarlicki uses the word journeying to describe her task as a social worker. It has a
beginning, middle and end, and once we start on this trajectory it really takes the patient
through a wide spectrum of emotions, she says. Theres the feeling of shock, loss, fear
and anger, and then the Cross becomes a safe place of nurturing, and then theyre let go,
back into their community, and its both scary and a relief at the same time. Youre never
the same person after such a life-changing experience.
But for Geoff and Tammy, there is consistency. Its all about our love, so shall it be forever, never ending, read the lyrics above their bed. And what seems like the end of the
story is really just a new beginning for the couple, now married for 33 years and still best
friends. Weve seen some suffering ... we know whatever may come, we can get through
it as if its just begun, the song continues.
Cancer Patient
32
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
ver the past 40 years, weve come a long way in terms of cancer dering side effects of chemotherapy and the long-term
survivorship. But while more Albertans than ever before are surviving effects of having lived with cancer?
These things dont register as frequently on our
cancer, theres still a long way to go. And one way that we can find
research radar, because we have been so focused on
improvement is through patient engagement.
Patient engagement aims to give patients more input and say into what works treating cancer, says Lechelt. So we are seeing an opand what doesnt throughout their diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. Its a portunity to have more involvement in what is importconcept that has gained significant ground in the United Kingdom and is only now ant to survivors.
Cross Cancer Institute oncologist Dr. Michael Sawbeginning to take hold in North America.
The term patient engagement has often been used to describe the field, but yer says one of the keys to opening up this commuLeah Lechelt, Alberta Cancer Foundations director of patient partnerships, says nication is having drug companies listen to what pacalling them patient partnerships is becoming the preferred choice of language tients deem helpful and useful. While cancer survival
nowadays. Theyre essentially the same idea: that patients, their families and sup- rates have continued to grow in Canada, and toxicity
port networks should be involved in the decision making process when it comes to rates have declined significantly, the side effects of
many drugs given to patients (like anemia, appetite
identifying improvements in cancer care.
If anyone knows the value of this kind of engagement, its Derek C. Stewart, an changes, constipation, diarrhea, and fatigue and hair
associate director with the Clinical Research Network in England, which works in loss) can still have a negative effect on a patients day.
The Cross uses a 4.0
conjunction with the National Institute
While cancer survival rates have continued grading system on toxicity.
for Health Research. Based out of the UK,
Zero is basically the absence
Stewart is more than just an expert in his
to grow in Canada, and toxicity rates have
of side effects and four is
field hes also a cancer survivor who bedeclined significantly, the side effects of
life-threatening side effects.
lieves that patients should have more say
many drugs given to patients can still have a A lot of new drugs range
in the decision making process surroundnegative effect on a patients day.
between one and two, says
ing research and treatment.
Sawyer. That, compared to
This is not about patients taking over
but about identifying priorities where, through a shared endeavour, we could make older drugs, in a way is amazing. But from the patients
a significant difference to help future patients and their caregivers, says Stewart. perspective, having side effects every single day levels
Engaging patients can help inform, shape and influence what is researched from of one and two levels is not that great. These side efthe questions that are asked to helping make the outcome measures meaningful fects still have a toll on peoples lives.
Sawyer uses the example of a patient with thyroid
and relevant. We can ensure that appropriate information about research opportunities is made available to help participants have a good experience and demand cancer, explaining that while the cancer is in check and
he or she generally feels better, he or she still cant plan
that we hear about the results.
A recent visit to Canada has Stewart optimistic about the ideology taking hold the day without knowing where every washroom in the
across the pond. Lechelt says her field is a new discipline emerging at quite a vari- vicinity is located. I think that drug companies would
able pace in Alberta, and it is no different in cancer care and research where truly benefit from developing their drugs if they stepped
back and actually listened to what the patients think,
listening to the voice of the customer is still a relatively new phenomenon.
The idea of patients being more involved in deciding [where] our cancer re- he says. If the drug companies would design more tolsearch and investment dollars [go] is the right thing to do for a lot of reasons, but it erable regimens, if they stopped and listened to some
also has some challenges, she says. On the one hand we want to protect research of the issues that the patients are actually experiencing
autonomy, yet we also want to build stronger connections between patients and re- then they would realize how the patients view them.
Through patient partnership, that thyroid cancer
searchers so that we are funding things that are considered a high priority to everypatients experience could soon make the cancer
body. So its about learning how to increase the circle a little bit.
While surviving cancer has always been the priority, part of cancer treatment also experience from diagnosis to treatment better for
includes helping patients after their treatment. How can they contend with the hin- everyone.
summer 2015
33
THATS
THE SPIRIT
Carnival Cocktails for Cancer honours the memory of
larger-than-life Jen Unplugged while raising money
for the Alberta Cancer Foundation
BY JACQUELINE LOUIE
34
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
ALL THAT GLITTERS: Carnival Cocktails for Cancer, a festivalstyle cocktail and food focused evening held in Calgary in April,
saw guests sport their best to raise almost $45,000 for the
Alberta Cancer Foundation in memory of Jen Gardiner.
summer 2015
35
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
You Are
WHERE
PHOTO: KEVIN KOSSOWAN
You Eat
summer 2015
37
hef Blair Lebsack rifles through a box of fresh produce, listing off
each items place on the menu of his restaurant, RGE RD. His go-to farm,
Prairie Gardens, is late dropping off the order. Its already 5:30 p.m. and some
items in the delivery are on the menu tonight.
Caitlin Fulton, general manager and partner, stands back from Lebsacks frenzied
inventory-taking. Often these vegetables will be picked within hours of us getting them,
she says. Its really nice, but it also means were operating by the seat of our pants.
Lebsack and Fulton have been operating by the seat of their pants since opening
about a year ago. Their location on trendy 124 Street in Edmonton is busy nearly every
night of the week, and theyre already expanding into the space next door.
Lebsack waves goodbye to the farmer, Tam Andersen, as he sits at the
table next to Fulton. He pinches the
lime-green stem of a piece of organic
mizuna, a leafy green crowned with
tiny golden flowers. This is why were
so excited for spring, he says, his eyes
trained on the delicate petals. Were
starting to get things like this.
RGE RD gets the majority of its vegetables from Prairie Gardens in Sturgeon County. This winter, they went through 12,000 pounds of the farms onions. They have a
similar relationship with local ranchers. As soon as we need a pig, they get it slaughtered, bring it to us the next day and then we butcher it all here, says Lebsack.
Its just part of daily life for a restaurant that serves up 95 per cent local food (We
have strayed, because of lemons, says Lebsack). RGE RD is a key player in Albertas fast-growing local food movement, which is facing a crisis of identity as it strug-
gles to define the term local food, and its reason for
existence.
One of the most compelling cases for eating local
is health. Its a refrain taken for granted by the movements champions: Local food is healthier than food
imported from out of province, or out-of-country.
But is it? The answer is a complicated one that relies on
how local food is defined, and a persons choices at the
farmers market.
Farmers markets have seen a spike in popularity
over the past decade. Nearly threequarters of Alberta
households visited
a farmers market in
2012, spending an
average of $55 per
visit. Thats up from
just over 60 per
cent of households in 2004. Surveys of buy-local purveyors consistently show that the reasons people purchase
local goods are varied. Lebsack was into local food as
a child, only he didnt call it local food back then. He
grew up on a farm near Edmonton, and almost everything his family ate was harvested from his familys own
fields and animals.
38
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
In contrast, farmer John Schneiders entry into the local food movement was a conscious one. He founded Gold Forest Grains eight years ago to preserve heritage varieties of wheat which he believed were at risk of extinction.I just thought it was a relatively noble thing to do, he says.
Schneiders heritage grain products quickly became a hit with Edmontonians
in part because of the perceived health benefits. Schneiders flours contain the whole
grain including the germ oil, which is removed from commercial flours because it
can go rancid over time.
He is quick to point out that he is no scientist, and he doesnt keep up with the
latest research on the health benefits of germ oil and the nutrients that could be lost
when its taken out of the flour. But
my customers pay attention to that,
and thats what theyre demanding,
says Schneider.
In 2007, locavore became the
word of the year, and Alisia Smith
and J.B. MacKinnon published their
book The 100-Mile Diet: A Year of Eating Locally. That same year, researchers followed a
group of adults in Virginia for four months as they attempted to consume a diet of 100
per cent local foods.
The majority of the participants lost weight, but they also ate a lot more cholesterol.
The researchers blamed the high-cholesterol intake on the lack of local healthy fats,
such as olive oil, nuts and fish. To fill the caloric gap, the participants ate more butter,
lard, pork and beef. But they also dined more on vegetables and fruits, their consumption of which increased by one-and-a-half cups per day.
This could lead to a significant reduction in chronic disease risk, the researchers
summer 2015
39
drive, we have the densest pig farms that would probably make most people sick if you were to actually enter
them. So you pick your food source in Alberta and we
probably have the best and the worst within a two-hour
drive of the city.
As a result, the term local food doesnt mean much
for Kossowan. Hes more concerned with building relationships with farmers and knowing where his food
comes from.
The same is true for Lebsack and Fulton. Their
restaurants success turns on their relationships with
farmers particularly their meat farmers.
In 2011, before Lebsack and Fulton had found a
space for their restaurant, they hosted a dinner on
the farm that would be the restaurants primary supplier of meat. The farm was on Range Road, an-hourand-a-half from Edmonton, so they called the event
Dinner at Range Road 135. Every ingredient on the
menu would be sourced right from the property or
from neighbouring pastures, and they would charge
diners for the privilege.
For Lebsack, the dinner underscored the philosophy of, not just the future restaurant, but the local food
movement: Connecting diners with their food. I dont
think you can open a restaurant today and just put
a name on it and say youre serving food, he says.
The only way we could is by showing people what
were doing.
Alberta Cancer
summer 2015
41
Top Job
42
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
FINE
FINISH
After 20 years in community oncology,
Wayne Enders is getting ready to retire
BY LISA CATTERALL
summer 2015
43
Top Job
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
summer 2015
45
Research Rockstar
Bench
to
Bedside
Researcher tackles complications
of bone marrow transplants to
bring recipients relief
BY LYNDSIE BOURGON
46
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
summer 2015
47
Research Rockstar
Graft versus host disease is a complication that can that would minimize their risk of developing the disease. Prophylactics for these
occur after a stem cell or bone marrow transplant, when kinds of complications are possible but also toxic, so you dont want to give it to evthe immune cells from the bone marrow donor attack eryone, he notes.
Clicking through one of the presentations that he often gives on his research,
the recipients body. GVHD symptoms take the form of
Storek displays a series of colourful
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice,
pie charts that outline what life is
dry eyes and mouth, shortness of
He goes to clinic and sees those people,
like for many leukemia patients after
breath and skin tightness or rashes.
then comes to the lab and is working on
treatment. Only about 35 per cent of
About 10 per cent of patients die
their problems. I think thats why hes so
patients are true beneficiaries of a
due to severe instances of GVHD,
and about 25 per cent of patients will successful. Hes in it for the right reasons and bone marrow transplant meaning
they live without complication after
struggle with the disease long-term,
thats very inspirational for us in the lab,
the procedure. About 20 per cent of
meaning poor quality of life.
Storek and his research team says research technician Samantha England. patients die due to a relapse of the
disease and about 10 per cent die
have been working to find ways that
would predict which patients are at risk of develop- from other causes. Albertas three-year survival rate for leukemia patients, at 50-75
ing GVHD. By doing this, patients deemed at high risk per cent, is actually high compared to the rest of North America (25-55 per cent). We
would eventually be able to receive a prophylactic drug are doing not bad, but we are still dissatisfied with the fact that only 35 per cent are
48
summer 2015
myleapmagazine.ca
and sees those people, then comes to the lab and is working on their problems. I think
true beneficiaries, says Storek. He points out the slice
thats why hes so successful. Hes in it for the right reasons and thats very inspiraof the pie that represents alive and well patients:
tional for us in the lab. A typical day for Storek can take place anywhere in the lab, at
We want that part of the pie to get bigger.
the University of Calgary or at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. Some days I am in the
Storek grew up in Prague, Czech Republic, and has
clinic, some days at the in-patient service, some days I write grants or go to student
spent his career travelling between research institupresentations to evaluate them, he says.
tions including the University of California, Los AngeWhen hes not working, Storek is active in his church and often goes on charity
les and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre
trips abroad. Hes also very active in the outdoors and enjoys hiking and backpackin Seattle, before heading to the University of Calgary.
ing. Hes also a coach at the Rocky Mountain Jackrabbits Ski Club. I enjoy the fun of
Hes a doctor and a researcher, so he knows about
leading kids into a love of the outdoors, he says.
both worlds, says Rosy Dabas, a second-year PhD
You get the impression that hes doing a really good job at a difficult balancstudent with Storek. If you go to him with a scientifing act, says England. In science there are so many details, its very specific and it
ic or technical problem, he remembers a paper from
changes fast, and it seems that hes effortlessly abreast of the updates in the lab and
20 years ago or experiment from 15 years ago that can
can remember it all.
help. You are awe-struck all the time, when you have a
Storek is, predictably, modest about his work ethic. The success is not my sucmeeting with him.
cess, but the success of the whole team, he says. He has worked with collaborators
Researchers know that to help prevent complicain clinical research like Poonam Dharmani-Khan and Mamta Kantharia, and says that
tions like GVHD, theyll need to consider how donors
his students, lab technicians and the
are matched with the leukemia patients that need them. The immune
You are awe-struck all the time, when you residents and nurses that he works
with are imperative to his work. Part
cells from a donor have both good
have a meeting with him, says second-year of his work includes communicating
and bad parts, says Storek. The
PhD student Rosy Dabas.
frequently with clinicians, so that
good is that they act against leukethey know he and his team are in need
mia, but the bad is that they also act
of specimens of blood and bone marrow from patients diagnosed with leukemia.
against the rest of the body and can cause GVHD. If we
They are busy, so research is not on the top of their mind, says Storek. By educatcan identify donors with low chances of GVHD, we will
ing them on what the research can mean, they understand and can remember to nouse them.
tify us about patients.
Since March 2014, Storek and his team have been
England says its this part of the work thats so unique. When we get a blood samworking on a clinical trial for a pre-emptive therapy
ple it comes with a name on the label, and you know that someone on the other end is
that could, one day, be given to patients at risk of
having an awful day and the work feels much more important, she says. You can see
developing GVHD. A test developed in Storek lab is
how it might help soon, in science terms at least.
used to determine which patient is at a high risk of
developing GVHD. The treatment itself will eventually
be pre-emptive: If you use it too late, when the
disease is manifest, it doesnt make a difference, says
Storek. Their results over the past year have been
promising none of the patients have died from
GVHD, though there has been an increase in
Right now Im reading: Papers underlying my grant application.
infections. But if it continues to look as good as it
My motto is: To trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your
looks now, the advantage of minimizing death and
own understanding.
long-term suffering due to GVHD will outweigh the
My favourite place in the world is: There are too many! For example, I
increase in infections, says Storek.
love any lake in the Rockies surrounded by larch trees.
He is motivated by the push to advance leukemia
My favourite food: Rum and raisin ice cream.
treatment: There is really only a relatively-small fracIm happiest when: I can make someone happy.
tion of patients who are true beneficiaries, because its
a toxic procedure with so many significant complications, Storek says. It will not be a viable therapy 100
years from now, unless we minimize the complications.
FIND YOUR MATCH: Around the world, 20 million people are
What has become disheartening for me is that
registered as bone marrow donors. Most are Caucasians, says Dr. Jan
there are a large number of long-term sufferers, he
Storek. There is a desperate need for other ethnicities.
says, of GVHD. Some patients die from leukemia, but
You could be a match for someone out there looking for a bone
there are patients who wonder why they even agreed
marrow or stem cell transplant. Right now, fewer than 30 per cent of
to go through the [bone marrow] transplant process
patients who need stem cell transplants will find a matched sibling in
if they knew were going to develop this complication.
their family. Those who are interested can register for the OneMatch
This empathy for patients comes from Storeks
Stem Cell and Marrow Network, a process through Canadian Blood
unique blend of lab research and work with patients in
Services that connects donors with patients. OneMatch also belongs
a clinical setting. Hes very compassionate towards
to an international network of registries, linking donors and patients
the individuals behind this, says Samantha England,
around the world. Learn more at onematch.ca
a research technician in Storeks lab. He goes to clinic
summer 2015
49
By Shelley Newman
Cindy Faas finds strength and camaraderie while riding for a cure
When Calgarian Cindy Faas stepped off her stationary bike after the CANSuffer
to Conquer event this February, she was tired, exhilarated and emotional. With her
husband, Phil, at her side and her One Aim Cycling Club teammates around her, she
participated in the fundraiser she discovered a year before.
Last year in May, I went to the Southcentre Mall alone it was important but hard
for me, because it was my first bald debut after starting chemo to treat breast cancer,
she says. Once there, she discovered CANSuffer to Conquer cyclists riding to help
end cancer. Seeing them, she felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and began to
thank each rider personally. I was too emotional to thank everyone, but I knew what
they were doing would continue to inspire me.
The inspiration was immediate. Faas wrote about the experience on her blog and
soon heard from Nigel Brockton, One Aims founder, and Martin Dodd, founder of
CANSuffer. They reached out and I was immediately accepted as a part of their
group, Faas explains. They supported me through chemo, surgery and radiation,
always encouraging me to stay positive.
Armed with support from family and newfound friends, Faas began participating in events. I had already signed up for Run for the Cure, expecting to walk,
she says. I was motivated by One Aim and trained for the five-kilometre run while
50
summer 2015
TITLE PARTNER
albertacancer.ca/moremoments