The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) has launched a new campaign to mobilize the Chinese community in support of world-leading cancer research.
The campaign aims to generate greater awareness and support for the most innovative and impactful cancer research – research that is helping to prevent, detect, and treat cancer. Through partnerships with trusted organizations and leaders, the campaign will engage Chinese Canadians with culturally relevant content, inspiring collective support for research that will save and improve the lives of people affected by cancer.
“Cancer has an immense impact on people, their loved ones and communities. The stakes couldn’t be higher. While we’ve made tremendous progress, there is still much more to do,” said Lina Mohamed, VP, Mass Marketing, Canadian Cancer Society.
“When the Canadian Cancer Society began funding research in the 1940s, the average 5-year cancer survival rate in Canada was about 25%. Today, it is 64%. However, with 2 in 5 Canadians expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, the need for continued support and action remains urgent. Cancer affects Chinese Canadians at significant rates, which is why it’s so important for the community to come together and ensure that the brightest ideas in cancer research are given every chance to succeed – and reach the people who need them most.”
In partnership with the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto (CCCGT) and Balmoral Multicultural Marketing, CCS kickstarted the campaign with a launch event at Toronto’s Chinese Cultural Centre today.
The launch featured Dr Annie Huang, a CCS-funded researcher whose pioneering work in pediatric brain tumours is transforming treatment options for children facing rare and aggressive cancers.
“If it wasn’t for donor support, I think a lot of the innovation we’re seeing in cancer care, both in my own practice and in my personal life, would never have been possible,” says Dr Huang.
Guests also heard from Nelson Ning Mak, a long-time CCS volunteer who has been driving cancer patients to their treatments through the Wheels of Hope program for more than a decade.
“As a volunteer driver, I’ve had the privilege of taking clients to appointments when they are participating in a clinical trial. These clients tell me how their participation gives them hope – not only for themselves, but for others who may benefit in the future. Research can mean the difference between hope and despair for them. To me, that shows the real, human impact and why it’s so important to keep supporting cancer research.”
Prominent members of the Chinese Canadian community, including business leaders, cultural champions, and long-time CCS supporters, attended the event to demonstrate their commitment to advancing cancer research and supporting those affected by the disease.
“We are honoured to host this meaningful launch at the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto,” said Alan Lam, Chairman, CCCGT. “This partnership reflects the power of community in driving change and improving health outcomes for all Canadians.”
Sharifa Khan, President & CEO of Balmoral Multicultural Marketing, added: “This campaign is a wonderful example of collaboration between Canada’s diverse communities and a national organization like the Canadian Cancer Society. Together, we can make a difference.”
The campaign is built around the tagline, “Plant good, and good will come.” The campaign highlights how donor support for cancer research today can serve as a seed of hope — one that will grow to save and improve more lives in the community for years to come.