Ottawa Cancer Foundation Launches Urgent ‘Dear Cancer’ Campaign

UPDATE: The Ottawa Cancer Foundation has just launched the urgent Dear Cancer campaign, aiming to amplify the voices of survivors and families affected by cancer. This powerful initiative is designed to showcase personal stories and experiences, creating a platform for those impacted by the disease to share their journeys.

Director of Communications, Angie Poirier, emphasized the campaign’s mission during an interview on CTV Your Morning Ottawa. “In those darkest times, you have your own conversations with cancer,” Poirier stated. “You curse it, you pray to it, and ultimately, you find strength in telling it what it did to you, but also what it couldn’t take away.”

The campaign features testimonials from clients, patients, caregivers, and family members, offering a deep dive into their experiences from diagnosis to recovery. Poirier noted, “You see that sort of full evolution; every cancer journey is different.” The goal is to highlight not just medical treatments, but the holistic aspects of healing, including nutrition, exercise, wellness programs, and financial support.

The Dear Cancer campaign launches amid a growing need for community support and awareness, as statistics show that over 1 in 2 Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Poirier’s personal connection to the cause is profound; her son, Nash Cote, was diagnosed with cancer in 2024. Thankfully, he is now a healthy and lively nine-year-old, showcasing resilience that has inspired many in the community.

Poirier expressed her gratitude for the support her family received during their difficult times. “The community really rallied around us, and we felt that. From the bottom of my heart, I will always be so thankful for that,” she said. Her experience motivated her to take on a larger role within the Ottawa Cancer Foundation, transforming her pain into purpose by helping others facing similar battles.

More details about the Dear Cancer campaign can be found at: https://dearcancerottawa.ca/. This initiative not only sheds light on the personal struggles faced by those with cancer but also serves as a rallying call for the community to support each other during these challenging times.

As the campaign unfolds, expect to see numerous stories shared, each bringing a unique perspective on the journey through cancer, emphasizing that healing goes beyond medical interventions. The Ottawa Cancer Foundation invites everyone to join this movement, sharing their own experiences or supporting those who are currently battling the disease.

Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story and the impact it will have on the community. The Dear Cancer campaign is a reminder of the strength found in unity and shared experiences, and it’s a conversation that needs to happen now.