Alberta Cancer Foundation: Changing Lives Through Transformational Initiatives
The Alberta Cancer Foundation (ACF) is a beacon of hope for Albertans facing the challenges of cancer, striving to create more meaningful moments for individuals and families grappling with the impact of this disease. With a commitment to supporting research, treatment, and care across the province, ACF plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for those affected by cancer.
At the heart of ACF's mission is the belief in Albertans helping Albertans. The organization is the fundraising partner for the 17 cancer centres across Alberta, dedicated to making life better for individuals facing cancer by championing cutting-edge research and enhanced patient care. A staggering statistic reveals that one in two Albertans will be diagnosed with cancer, emphasizing the urgent need for support, compassion, and innovative solutions. Over the next few sections, I will highlight some of the patient support and groundbreaking initiatives currently undertaken at ACF.
Patient Financial Assistance Program
Cancer can be a colossal strain on finances, pushing individuals to cash in retirement funds and deplete savings to navigate the financial challenges during treatment. The daunting costs sometimes force patients to forgo life-saving therapy due to insurmountable out-of-pocket expenses. Recognizing these struggles, the Alberta Cancer Foundation's Patient Financial Assistance Program becomes a crucial lifeline for individuals navigating the financial challenges that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.
The program, funded entirely by donations, supported hundreds of families facing cancer in 135 communities across the province in 2023, offering financial aid for necessities such as travel, accommodations, and medications not covered by insurance. The impact of this program extends far beyond the immediate medical aspects, enabling families to focus on what matters most – healing. Announced ahead of World Cancer Day 2024, a current fundraising push in support of the financial assistance program received a significant boost with a matching gift campaign, aiming to raise $400,000 between February 4 and 29, 2024.
Game Changer Fund
ACF continues to spearhead a new era of cancer research through its Game Changer Fund. Launched in May 2023, and funded through the "We Cross Cancer" campaign, this $5 million initiative supports local, multidisciplinary, and innovative cancer research in Edmonton. The inaugural recipients announced on February 5, 2024, comprised of four research teams who will each receive up to $1.25 million to tackle diverse aspects of cancer research.
The Game Changer Fund addresses critical gaps in translational research, fostering collaboration between researchers and clinicians – something that most traditional granting programs don’t allow for. The projects include Dr. Vickie Baracos' exploration of cancer cachexia, Dr. Ing Swie Goping's patient-derived organoid platform for breast cancer research, Dr. Roseline Godbout's investigation into the link between metabolism and prostate cancer progression, and Dr. Kristi Baker's study of immune resistance mechanisms in late-stage, genetically unstable cancers.
The success of the Game Changer Fund positions ACF as a pioneer in different approaches to philanthropy and filling important gaps in the research continuum. Plans are already underway to expand the Fund to other parts of the province, ensuring that groundbreaking research continues to improve the lives of Albertans facing cancer.
Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer
The Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer, formerly known as the Ride to Conquer Cancer, stands as ACF's flagship event and Alberta's largest cycling fundraiser. Since its inception in 2009, this cycling event has raised an impressive $94 million, with a current goal of surpassing $100 million. Over 18,000 Albertans have participated, collectively covering an astonishing 54 million kilometers.
The event brings together thousands of participants from all walks of life, united by a shared commitment to make a difference for cancer patients across the province. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Strathmore Stampede Grounds, the event is gearing up for another successful ride this July 20th and 21st, driven by a community of passionate riders committed to funding groundbreaking research, innovative treatments, and enhanced care for Albertans facing cancer.
The Alberta Cancer Foundation's unwavering commitment to transforming the landscape of cancer care in Alberta is evident through its multifaceted initiatives. From the Patient Financial Assistance Program's practical support to the Game Changer Fund's groundbreaking research and the impactful Tour Alberta for Cancer, ACF continues to be a beacon of hope, creating more moments for Albertans facing cancer. As the organization forges ahead, the call for support echoes louder than ever, urging individuals, communities, and organizations to join hands in the pursuit of a cancer-free future.
To learn more, please visit www.albertacancer.ca.
