“I’m still here,” says three-time cancer survivor Mary Ann LaHayne, who for the past 15 years has supported the Cancer Resource Centre at the annual Unite & Fight fundraiser. LaHayne had breast cancer in 1995, then in 2010 was diagnosed with Stage 4 lymphoma of the spleen and in 2016 lung cancer.
“It’s wonderful to see survivors complete that first lap and then the walkers and the runners join in all for the same cause,” says LaHayne. “The Cancer Resource Centre had a vision and that vision has come true with Unite & Fight. The event brings survivors and their families together to support those with cancer. As we raise awareness for this important cause; it promotes camaraderie between all who are there.”
The Cancer Resource Centre offers a variety of support groups, mind-body programs and educational resources to support the emotional healing of individuals and families.
Chairman of the Cancer Resource Centre Advisory Board M. Nabil Shabeeb, MD, says the Unite & Fight event is a great way to get involved and make a difference.
“All of the money raised goes directly to the Cancer Resource Centre,” Shabeeb says. “Nearly $1.5 million has been raised for programs and services since the event began in 2001.”
The Centre, which is a program of the Community Cancer Research Foundation, is funded from donations and grants, in-kind contributions and volunteer support. Services to cancer patients, their families and friends are free of charge.
To get involved, visit uniteandfight.org or call 219-836-3349 for more information.
