Our Impact | Daffodil Ball

Cancer Research

Our bold approach to funding innovative, world-leading research is making life better today while transforming the future of cancer forever. In 2021/22, we engaged people with cancer and caregivers in research in new ways to deepen our impact.

We have funded 190 talented lead researchers. Over the past 5 years, CCS invested $27.5 million into the Canadian Cancer Trials Group.

The CCS believes in the importance of collaborating with key players like CQDM, the Cole Foundation, and Oncopole to pool resources and transform the future of cancer. We’re all about uniting and inspiring people across the country to take action against cancer. It all starts with prevention. This partnership is an investment in our collective future.

In 2020, the CCS awarded over $7M in grants in Montreal, Quebec City and Sherbrooke alone.

Learn more about research

Two out of five Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.

64%

of people affected by cancer will live on for at least five years among those diagnosed between 2015 and 2017, compared to 25% in the 1940s.

$44.3
million

has been invested by CCS in high-impact research.

Testimony

Twenty years ago, a leukemia diagnosis was practically a death sentence. To everyone who donates their money to research, volunteers their time, or donates blood and marrow, I would not be alive today without you. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to get married, watch my kids grow up, and hopefully have grandchildren one day. I will forever be in your debt.

Michelle Burleigh, cancer thriver

Financial Support for Travel

For over 15 years, we’ve offered financial support to people affected by cancer in low-income households in order to help them with additional costs related to travelling to treatment centres. Thanks to the allowances we can offer them, they don’t have to worry about these costs and can focus on getting better.

Some people have even considered stopping treatment due to the financial burden of such travels.

10,000

people over 60 all across Quebec have benefitted from our program.

Testimony

I was 15 years old when my mother was diagnosed. I had to be independent and grow up faster than other guys my age. My sister and I had to work hard to keep us afloat financially. Luckily, we got support from the Canadian Cancer Society to help us pay for parking at the hospital.

Vincent Bonnallie-Brodeur, caregiver

Information Helpline

Cancer doesn’t stop, even during a pandemic. That’s why our Cancer Information Helpline is an essential service. It allows us to break people out of isolation, lend a sympathetic ear, and provide personalized information to people affected by cancer and their loved ones. Throughout the pandemic, our team has continued to answer questions on all types of cancer and made sure to take the time to talk with those who need it.

We received nearly 200 calls a week for Quebec only.

10,000

inquiries received by our Cancer Information Helpline from people living with cancer and their loved ones in Quebec.

Testimony

I had treatments every day. I was in great pain. I felt a great sense of despair swell up inside, but I told no one. Then one day I called the Cancer Information Helpline. I was finally able to share my deep, dark secret. The secret that I wanted to be gone. And they really listened, and that gave me the strength to continue. If I hadn’t called them, I don’t think I’d still be here today.

Sharon Sandhawalia, cancer survivor

A story of hope from Sylvain Poissant

When he was only 27 years old, Sylvain was diagnosed with advanced melanoma. For two years, he underwent intensive treatment, including a clinical trial that helped save his life. He had to leave his home and country for the treatment. Fortunately, his family was able to join him, staying at a lodge near the treatment centre. Their support and reassuring presence meant the world to him.

"In donating to the Canadian Cancer Society’s Jacques Cantin Lodge, I wanted to offer someone else the same support I received."

Sylvain Poissant has been involved with the Canadian Cancer Society for the past 13 years. He is proud to take part in the important work of prevention and support.

Jacques-Cantin Lodge

Jacques Cantin Lodge is a home away from home for people from across Quebec who must travel to Montreal for their treatment. It offers complete amenities and all the warmth and comfort they so desperately need. They can meet and talk to people like themselves who are affected by cancer. A caring team is also available to see to their well-being and lend a sympathetic ear.

To date, over 6,695 people who have had to leave their homes to get treatment in Montreal have stayed at Jacques Cantin Lodge.

650

residents have been welcomed by the staff at Jacques Cantin Lodge this year despite the pandemic.

Testimony

My wife and I used the Jacques-Cantin Lodge’s services on several occasions. I always felt at home there. The employees are very cheerful, warm and helpful. They’re all rare gems, from the reception and housekeeping staff to the attendants, cooks and volunteers. The rooms very well maintained, clean, and are even more inviting since the renovations. I am truly grateful because without the Jacques-Cantin Lodge, many of us wouldn’t have the means to get the care we need.

Pierre Dessureault, prostate cancer survivor