Spring 2005 - Kids Cancer Care

Kids
FOR THE PARTICIPANTS, VOLUNTEERS AND SUPPORTERS OF KIDS CANCER CARE FOUNDATION OF ALBERTA SPRING 2005
A 3-D Look at Cancer
CANCER CARE NEWS
Hanford Deglint is a very interesting young man with a lot of work and play packed into his 24 years. First
things first, how did he get his distinctive name?
Neuroblastoma is the third most common type of cancer in
children. Currently, radiologists look at a tumour image and
determine the size and shape by sight, drawing the outline by
hand – a time-consuming procedure. In most cases, a tumour
cannot be removed until it has been reduced in size by chemotherapy
or radiotherapy. Thus, follow-up by imaging methods is
critical.
Hanford investigated the improvement of tumour analysis in
patients with neuroblastoma by using X-ray computed tomography
(CT) exams. He and Dr. Rangayyan developed a way to
have the computer draw a 3D image of the tumour. The
computer program can also tell where different kinds of tissue
are in the tumour, helping to pinpoint treatment and surgery
areas.
“My Dutch parents wanted Canadian names for their children,
who were born after my parents emigrated from Holland to
Vancouver. When I was born, the doctor gave them a book of
baby names; they chose Hanford, thinking that this was a very
Canadian name. As we know, it isn’t,” he says with a laugh.
“It’s actually an old English name meaning from the high ford
or road.”
He is probably more aptly named than he knows, as this high
achiever is already on the road to helping radiologists in
determining the exact size and nature of cancerous tumours.
As a graduate engineering student at the University of
Calgary, Hanford received two KCCFA summer
intern grants – one each in 2003 and 2004␣ – enabling
him to work with Principal Investigator, Dr. Rangaraj
Rangayyan on computer-aided analysis of tumours in
neuroblastoma.
NEUROBLASTOMA:
A SOLID TUMOUR CANCER THAT
USUALLY STARTS IN THE ADRENAL
GLAND NEAR THE KIDNEY BUT CAN
ALSO BE FOUND IN THE CHEST,
NECK, PELVIS, OR OTHER SITES.
NEARLY 70% OF CHILDREN
DIAGNOSED HAVE CANCER THAT
HAS ALREADY METASTASIZED
(SPREAD TO OTHER PARTS OF THE
BODY). THE AVERAGE AGE AT
DIAGNOSIS IS TWO YEARS OLD.
Hanford’s research work is an important step along the road to better treatment and possibly reducing the
need for surgery. Now graduated, he is completing some research writing and lab work while seeking a
position in the biomedical field. When he is not in the lab, he enjoys a wide variety of activities from hiking
the West Coast Trail last July with his wife Pauline, to playing volleyball, soccer, squash and the trumpet.
Get Your
Motor Runnin’
On June 24 to 26, the 3rd
Annual Trico Homes Ride
for a Lifetime will wind its
way through scenic
destination highways to
Cranbrook and Kelowna.
Register today at
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca.
If you are a cancer survivor
under 18 and would like to
be an honourary rider…
please contact Sara at
216.9210 ext 228. All funds
raised from this event go to
childhood cancer research.
The production of this newsletter is
made possible through a generous
donation from an anonymous donor.
Inside…
Favourite Friends 2/3
Young Adult Conference/ 4
International Focus
CEO Message 5
Camp & Community 6/7
Perspectives 8
Donors Spark Research 9
Profiles 10
Coming Events 11
Volunteer Opportunities 12
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca
1

Favourite Friends
Friends help to make great things happen at KCCFA! Thanks to everyone who has raised funds through
community initiatives and to those who shaved their lids for the kids. Here are few highlights:
Holy Spirit Charitable Society Delivers
Our friends at the Holy Spirit Charitable Society are helping us to communicate with you. By
providing funds to distribute this newsletter, Holy Spirit enables us to send the newsletter to you
three times a year. With a circulation of 5,000, it reaches all our families, program participants,
volunteers, stakeholders and donors with information about what’s new in childhood cancer
research, magic moments at camp, special events in the community, volunteer activities and highlights
of our supporters. The production of this newsletter is made possible through a generous
donation from an anonymous donor.
BMO Employees Provide Hope
The Bank of Montreal Fountain of Hope is an association of employees and
pensioned employees of BMO Financial Group. For 35 years this association has
been directly benefiting charities through financial support and personal involvement
of its members. KCCFA is grateful to have been a recipient of their generosity
for the past several years.
BMO Fountain of Hope
representatives Beth Ann
Mahan, and Beco their
mascot, present a cheque
to Candice Martin, KCCFA.
24-Hour Design Blitz Yields New Friends
KCCFA was fortunate to be selected as a recipient of the creative energies of
CreateAthon: a 24-hour design marathon benefiting local not-for-profit organizations
in Southern Alberta. Members of The Society of Graphic Designers of
Canada worked on pro-bono projects for various organizations. As a result of this event, Donna
Deschenes and her team at Deschenes Regnier have taken on the creative task of developing
the marketing materials for the upcoming Trico Homes Ride for a Lifetime. They have generously
donated their time and their energy to create a fresh new look for this third annual event.
Toromont Process Systems
For eight years our friends at Toromont Process Systems have been hosting a golf tournament in
support of our Camp & Community Outreach programs. A committee of staff volunteers organizes
a great day of golf for all the participants. Toromont raised $52,000 last year – a record
amount for this tournament!
Survivors Jeff McNabb, Taryn
Penrice and Amanda Richter
present the results of their
efforts to KCCFA
representatives Mike
MacKay and Candice
Martin.
Golf a Kid to Cure
Last September, a small group of childhood
cancer survivors, their parents and friends
joined forces to organize the second annual
Golf a Kid to Cure. All extremely committed
to the cause, these volunteers put on an
amazing tournament at Alberta Springs Golf
Resort just outside of Sylvan Lake. Thanks to
all the sponsors, prize donors and golfers who
helped make this tournament an outstanding
success, raising $92,000 for cancer research.
Check out the golf event listings on page 11 for
information on all the 2005 tournaments.
2
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca

10 Year-old on a Mission
What do you call a 10 yearold
on a mission? At
KCCFA, we call him
William Wilson.
When he heard that his
grandmother had been
diagnosed with breast cancer, William
decided to shave his head. With the support and
encouragement of family, friends, neighbours and a soccer coach who
was more than happy to help shave William’s head, William raised
$1,310. William celebrated his new haircut and huge achievement
with a party hosted by his proud mom Linda.
®
(left) William Wilson,
counting “The most money
he’s ever seen.”
Love is in the Air
Some people give flowers, and some chocolates but this Valentines Day, Breena Pick, of
the Alternative High School, gave her hair and a lesson in love. As a two-time cancer survivor,
Breena Pick took the head shave challenge to raise money for cancer research and to help
encourage Alternative High School students to “shave their lids.”
Rallying around Breena, were the students and staff of the Alternative High School. Although
Breena’s shave was the “MANE” event of the school assembly, several other students participated
in getting the word out about KCCFA and “Shave Your Lid for a Kid.”
Alternative High School students Shelly Anton and Angie Jensen put on a skit about Breena’s
decision to shave her lid and Amanda Kadatz educated the audience on childhood cancer with
a powerful slide show tribute to her sister, Shelby, whom she lost to cancer at an early age.
Not only did Breena assist in raising money for KCCFA, she also donated 7" of hair to “Locks of
Love.” Thank you Breena for giving the gift of love this Valentines Day.
Rona Johnstone
proves that
bald is beautiful
To book your head
shave call Sara today!
216-9210
Parents Quest for a Cure Gala
Over 300 people gathered at the Eau Claire Sheraton Suites for a spectacular gala. Guests were
treated to a champagne reception, an excellent meal, live and silent auction, jazz and retro dancing
with the Dino Martinis and some inspiring words from Dr. Doug Strother, Pediatric Oncologist
at the Southern Alberta Children’s Hospital. If you missed out, you can read his speech on our
website. This memorable evening raised over $85,000 for childhood cancer research. The gala
owes its success to the organizers – all parents of children with cancer. A round of applause goes
out to Lisa Clarke Potts and Hugo Potts, Kathleen and Murray Kirzinger and Kathy and
Drew Harris. Thanks also to the event sponsors, auction item donors and all those who attended
the event and brought their enthusiasm!
“It is an extremely exciting time for us in the Cancer Program: people, space, programs, financial support
and opportunities are all coming together to create a potential, greater than any before, dedicated to
children’s cancer.” Excerpted from a speech by Dr. Doug Strother at the Parents Quest for a Cure Gala. To
read more, go to www.kidscancercare.ab.ca and click on research.
“Opportunities
are all coming
together to
create a
potential,
greater than any
before, dedicated
to children’s
cancer.”
– Dr. Doug Strother
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca
3

Young Adult Conference 2005
Strengthening V.O.I.C.E.S was the theme of this year’s Young Adult Conference. The
conference was held at the beautiful Silver Creek Guest Ranch in Water Valley, an hour outside of
Calgary. Thirty-five young people, ages 15-25, participated in the conference, and took in many
different presentations focused on empowerment and positive life styles.
The conference was packed full of highlights. We kicked off with some very strong voices, the
Heebie-jeebies, a renowned a cappella band. Participants took
part in workshops on healthy physical lifestyles, healthy relationships,
public speaking, youth volunteering, youth fundraising, and
salsa dancing. KCCFA’s own Boychuk family put on taekwondo,
hair and make-up presentations. Going along with the theme,
karaoke was a big hit, and the auditions for the first KCCFA Idol
will be taking place soon. The conference was also a chance to
catch up with old friends, make new ones, and strengthen support
networks that are so important – even if it meant staying up until
3 AM!
Music Therapist, Trina
Nestibo, works her musical
magic at YAC.
The delegates also had the opportunity to create and record
their own song with the assistance of music therapist Trina
Nestibo. The song was incredible! It was true group collaboration,
and a great way to voice the thoughts of the delegates on survivorship, friendship, and the
possibilities of the future.
The Young Adult Conference organizing committee would like to thank the Silver Creek Guest
Ranch for the great hospitality and the delicious food (home-cooked lasagna for 50!). We would
also like to thank all of the presenters, volunteers and nurses for their amazing effort. Their caring
and commitment never ceases to amaze us.
International ‘Focus’ on Childhood Cancer
On February 15, children with cancer at Calgary’s Alberta Children’s Hospital
participated in the launch of a unique international project called Through My
Eyes: A Day in the Life of Children with Cancer Around the World.
KCCFA is very honoured to be asked to coordinate this exciting project.
In recognition of International Childhood Cancer Day, children in hospitals
around the world were given cameras to take pictures of people and things that
reflect their thoughts and feelings about cancer and their treatments. Eight
Calgary children participated, taking 128 photos. A select number of photos will
be chosen to form part of the Through My Eyes exhibition in Vancouver in
September at the 2005 SIOP (International Society of Pediatric Oncology)
conference.
Number of Pills I take in One
Week (photo by Doug)
“The primary goal of the exhibit is to raise the awareness of childhood cancer and the vast
differences that exist between ‘have’ and ‘have not’ countries. It will give us the opportunity as a
developed country to ask, ‘how can we use our experiences and resources to assist others?”
states Christine Wandzura, CEO of KCCFA and Through My Eyes Project Coordinator.
The International Confederation of Childhood Cancer Parent Organizations (ICCCPO) supports
this project, which furthers its mandate to share information and experience in order to improve
access to the best possible care for children everywhere in the world. KCCFA is one of 75
member organizations that belong to ICCCPO.
4
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca

From the Desk of the CEO
Here we grow again…a long way from our humble beginnings. We have moved our offices up one
floor and added new staff for our expanding programs. Give us a call and say hello to Tim
Ireland, Community Outreach Coordinator, Sara Foster, Special Events Coordinator and Jodi
McNabb, Campaign Manager.
And with growth comes change. We reluctantly say goodbye to Wylma Williams who is
pursuing a new career with the Alberta Cancer Foundation. We enjoyed Wylma's delightful sense
of humour and incredible work ethic for four years and wish her well as she continues to impact
the lives of people with cancer. We also wish the very best to Moneet Sandhu, our practicum
student for the last four months, who has just completed her degree in Child and Youth Care from
the University of Victoria. We thank her for providing her insights, enthusiasm and her wonderful
smile.
At the recent Young Adult Conference I re-connected with some old friends. It was really neat
to see kids who were part of our first wave of campers now grown into strong, independent
young people who have jobs and homes and are shaping up to be our leaders of tomorrow. We
are all proud of the part we have played, and continue to play, in their development.
I started to think of the other long-term relationships that are important to us. Our wonderful
relationship with the men and women of Fire, Police and EMS launched the beginning of our very
successful head shave events. 9-1-1 Life Shavers is such a big event that it is held once every
two years. I am thrilled that 2005 is a 9-1-1 Life Shaver year!
We also have long-term relationships with several corporations who host fundraising golf tournaments
on our behalf, often doing all the work without expecting anything in return. These truly
caring organizations ensure that our present programs are funded and enable us to be responsive
to new challenges. In this issue, you can read about the upcoming tournaments in which you can
participate.
Our relationships with our volunteers are crucial to us as well. Their dedication and commitment
is absolutely inspiring. In this issue, one of our valued volunteers shares her perspective as a
grandparent of a child with cancer.
We are honoured to coordinate the Through My Eyes Program for the International Confederation
of Childhood Cancer Parent Organizations (ICCCPO). This photographic exhibit is being created
by children with cancer to bring awareness about the differences in treatment in different parts of
the world.
Thanks to Framework Partners for guiding us through our strategic process; it is our blueprint
for the next three years. One of the plan highlights is our commitment to the Southern Alberta
Cancer Research Institute (SACRI), which we featured in the Winter 2004 newsletter. A recent
hardhat tour of the new facility, still under construction, confirmed that we are on the right track.
The building is full of light and open space which is very conducive to sharing and that’s what good
research is all about, sharing ideas and collaborating on solutions.
Annual Report
Our Annual Report will be mailed out in June. In order to reduce mailing costs, we have reduced
our distribution list. The report will be available on our website or mailed out upon request. If
you would like to receive a copy, please contact us at 403.216.9210 ext. 227 or by e-mail at
staff@kidscancercare.ab.ca
Christine Wandzura
“When nothing
seems to help, I
go and look at
a stonecutter
hammering
away at his
rock perhaps a
hundred times
without as
much as a
crack showing
in it. Yet at the
hundred and
first blow it will
split in two,
and I know it
was not that
blow that did it,
but all that had
gone before.”
– Jacob Riis
Christine Wandzura, M.S.M., CFRE, Chief Executive Officer
Send me a note; drop me a line, at wandzura@kidscancercare.ab.ca
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca
5

Camp & Community Outreach
Summer Camp is Calling
NOTICE
Camp
Registration
Forms and the 2004
KCCFA Yearbook have been
sent out. If you did not
receive this package,
please contact Mike
MacKay at 403.216.9210
ext.223 or
mackay@kidscancercare.ab.ca.
Pack your backpacks, dust off your hiking boots and roll-up your sleeping bags...it’s not too late to
sign up for summer camp. A summer full of nurse pool dunking, friendship making, song singing and
ice cream eating make for a whole lot of fun at this year’s camp. Registration for Camp SunRise
(ages 3-7), Camp SunMaker (ages 6-16) and our new adventure-based program Camp SunSeeker
(ages 14-17 and off treatment for over 1 1/2 years) has already begun. Please contact our Residential
Camp Coordinator, Nicole Bruton, at 403.216.9210 ext. 231 for further details. If you have forms to mail in,
please address them to our new address below. All camp registration forms are available on our website.
Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta
609 – 14 Street N.W., Suite 302
Calgary, AB T2N 1A2
Family Weekend in Kimberley
Join us June 20 to 26 for a weekend of fun, activities and friendship in Kimberley, B.C. This is an
opportunity for newly diagnosed families to get together with long-term survivors of childhood
cancer. Parents will be able to share experiences and provide support to one another. Families can
take advantage of the many recreational activities in the area. Special events are being planned by
KCCFA. The weekend will be a busy one with the “Trico Homes Ride for a Lifetime” and the
SunSeeker camp traveling through the East Kootenays. For more information contact Mike MacKay
403.216.9210 ext 223.
Summer Camp Dates
The dates have been set for this Summer’s Camp programs.
SunRise:
SunMaker:
July 11 – 15, and July 18 – 22, Edmonton
July 25 – 29, and August 1 – 5, Calgary
July 11 – 16, July 18 – 23, July 25 – 30, August 1 – 6, Camp Horizon
SunSeeker is a new teen adventure camp. We will be running three, 10-day summer sessions as
well as weekend outings in May and June. Watch for more details on these exciting new camps:
Whitewater Adventure Camp: July 1 – 10
Rock Climbing and Ecotourism Camp: August 8 – 17
Multi-sport Camp: August 22 – 31
Teen Programs 2005
Brenna & Stephanie
share a camp hug.
Cue the drum roll… INTRODUCING THE NEW KIDS
CANCER CARE FOUNDATION COMMUNITY TEEN
PROGRAM! We are excited to announce our new monthly teen
program for youth aged 13-18. The program will be a mix of recreational,
educational, volunteer, and leadership activities.
The program kicked off on March 18 with a showing of the movie “Napoleon Dynamite.” It was
followed by a brainstorming session about what kind of programming teens want to see. For more
info, contact Tim Ireland, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 403.216.9210 ext. 231 or
ireland@kidscancercare.ab.ca. See you there!
6
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca

KCCFA Camp and Community Outreach Team
Camp and Community Outreach is more than a new name for KCCFA’s camp and recreation
programs, it is a commitment to provide year-round support and ongoing
connections for young people and families. Your Outreach team is hard at
work creating programs to be unveiled throughout the year. Weekend camps,
retreats, monthly arts and teen programs, a leadership development program
and events designed for parents and families are all part of the expanded
programming.
Nicole Bruton, Residential Camp Coordinator, maintains contact with many
campers throughout the year. She believes in a holistic approach, which
provides not only fun outdoor experiences, but also ensures that every
camper has opportunities to grow, learn, and receive emotional support as
they deal with childhood cancer.
Tim Ireland, Community Outreach Coordinator, has many years of experience
providing both recreation programs and support to children, youth and
families. He is taking the lead role in the development of community-based year round programs.
Chris (Topher) Baptiste, Program Assistant, is updating and managing the camper database and
assisting with event preparation. As summer approaches, Chris will make camp preparations and
process all applications.
Moneet Sandhu, is a student recently graduated from the University of Victoria, and she recently
completed a three-month practicum with KCCFA. Moneet filled the role of youth worker by
providing individualized support and group training for young people. We wish her well in her
future endeavors.
Volunteers are an integral part of the programs. Barb Smeltzer, Volunteer Manager, has been
instrumental in developing a larger volunteer base, creating specialized volunteer roles and introducing
a number of new faces to the organization.
Finally, parents are an important part of our team. From hosting weekly pizza dinners on Q-
Cluster to providing support for newly diagnosed children, to assisting with fundraising and
volunteering at special events, parents make it all possible.
Mike McKay, Camp & Community Program Director
Contact me at 403.216.9210 ext. 223
Platonic Picasso
A new year brings a new SunDance program! The first of our monthly SunDance recreation
programs for kids aged 3-12 took place at the Killarney Glengarry Community centre on
February 6.
The activity of the program was the “Picasso Plates.” Twenty kids and their parents made plates
with silly Picasso style pictures on them (Who says a hand can’t have eye balls on it?). There was
also a feast of cake and ice cream, followed up by story time at the end. We would like to thank
Holly McWilliams, our arts and crafts guru, for helping us get a little wacky with our picture
designs!
All work and no play…will
we ever find that contact
lens?
“Most of us miss out
on life’s big prizes.
The Pulitzer. The
Nobel. Oscars. Tonys.
Emmys. But we’re all
eligible for life’s small
pleasures. A pat on
the back. A kiss
behind the ear.
A four-pound bass.
A full moon. An
empty parking space.
A crackling fire.
A great meal. A
glorious sunset.
Hot soup. Cold beer.
Don’t fret about
copping life’s grand
awards. Enjoy its tiny
delights.”
– Author Unknown
Look for our upcoming SunDance programs in the Spring, which include a trip to the symphony,
an afternoon at Science World, a taekwondo class, and some more arts and crafts fun from the
brain of Holly McWilliams. For more details, contact Tim Ireland, Community Outreach Coordinator, at
403.216.9210 ext. 231 or ireland@kidscancercare.ab.ca.
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca
7

Perspectives
Stephanie Laidlaw is a grandparent of a child who has survived cancer and a KCCFA volunteer. She
shares her perspective with us.
Diagnosis and Treatment
My grandson, Campbell, was diagnosed with cancer at age two. After complaining
about pain in his legs, his parents took him to the doctor where x-rays did
not provide a certain diagnosis. Later on, after a particularly bad weekend
when Campbell was in a lot of pain and having trouble walking, he went to the
Children’s Hospital. He was diagnosed with neuroblastoma and treatment
began immediately.
Looking back, the whole thing seems like such a blur. I was with my son when
his wife called to tell him the news. It was a very traumatic experience. That
day will remain forever in my memory.
All of a sudden our whole lives changed. Campbell went from being a healthy child to a seriously
ill child. He had surgery, two bone marrow transplants, chemotherapy and radiation. It was a long
haul. He was in the hospital from April until Christmas, with only the occasional day pass.
Throughout the entire treatment, he was never left alone. His parents took turns and one or the
other stayed with him all the time.
“I never gave
up hope. It
never entered
my mind that
Campbell
wouldn’t be a
strong healthy
little boy after
his treatment
was finished.”
Support From Family & Friends
My son’s family was lucky because they had lots of family on both sides to support them. The
community of Cochrane was very supportive. The Cochrane RCMP did a head shave to raise
funds. My husband and I felt very supported by our friends. They understood that we sometimes
needed to change our plans at the last minute if we were needed.
My son and daughter-in-law have been really strong. They were there for each other and they
fought through it. They are a good team together.
My feelings
As a grandparent, I felt hollow, almost floating…like standing back and watching somebody else.
My husband and I tried to be as strong as possible and to be available at all times, no questions
asked. We were both working at the time, so we had to balance that with being at the hospital
and supporting Campbell’s sister, Kennedy. We found it mentally exhausting but that extra
adrenalin comes from somewhere.
As a parent, to see my son and daughter-in-law’s lives change overnight was very upsetting for me;
emotionally it was hard to watch. It wasn’t in my hands to make it better, so I did a lot of praying.
The whole time I thought, ‘I can’t believe this is happening.’ Life was on hold. When Campbell was
down, he was really down, but the rest of the time he was a very lively and noisy little boy. He
was a real fighter and he coped well. Now, I can’t believe Campbell ever went through it. He is
six years old, active and full of life; he skis, swims, plays hockey and soccer. He is really an amazing
little guy. But, whenever he gets a cold or a tummy ache, my head goes right back there.
Volunteering with KCCFA
I got involved with KCCFA once Campbell was on the road to recovery. Campbell and his sister
Kennedy have been to camp twice and will be going again this summer. I wanted to get involved
with the Foundation because of the excellent work they do for cancer families.
8
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca

Donors Spark Research
Since our very first monthly donor signed on in December 2001, the program has gained momentum.
Now 73 people donate over $21,000 annually through monthly contributions. Not only convenient for
donors, the monthly program also reduces Foundation expenses. In 2004 monthly and annual donors
contributed to some great accomplishments in the field of research. Read on...
Research Funding Tops $1M
KCCFA contributed over $1M to research in 2004/05. We continued to pursue excellence by
funding key research projects that attract and retain the best people, increase the body of scientific
work and provide the necessary tools.
Attract & Retain the Best People
$400,000 went towards our commitment to the Kids Cancer Care Chair in Pediatric Oncology.
We hope to complete our portion of the $6M endowment by 2007. The Chair will encourage
excellence at an international level in research, leading to a favourable clinical environment,
improved training opportunities and enhanced capacity.
To provide research assistance and attract new candidates to the field, KCCFA contributed
$15,000 for three summer students. In this issue, you can read more about one of our past
summer students who is successfully adding value to the research field (Hanford Deglint).
To ensure we are keeping the best and the brightest right here in Calgary, the Foundation provided
funding support to two key research contributors – Dr. Steve Robbins and Dr. Doug
Strother.
Increase the Body of Scientific Work
$150,000 funded three ongoing projects headed up by Dr. Peter Forseyth, Dr. Doug Demetrick
and Dr. Max Coppes. Each of these multi-year projects focuses on a very specific element of
cancer-solid tumour cells, medulloblastoma (a highly malignant brain tumour) and wilms tumour.
You can read more about these research projects on our website. KCCFA also funded two
psychological studies, one which looks at the impact of physical activity on the physical, social and
emotional wellbeing of adolescent cancer survivors, and one which studies pain in children with
bone tumours.
The Tools
To begin the process of providing the research team with the tools, KCCFA made its first financial
contribution of $500,000 to the Centre for Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics, which will
be a part of the Southern Alberta Cancer Research Institute. We continue to fundraise for the
Centre, scheduled to open in 2006.
It is only through a greater knowledge of childhood cancer that we will be able to achieve our
long-range vision of eradicating the disease. By bringing together the people, enabling more
scientific work, and providing the tools we hope to encourage the next wave of ideas in the rapidly
evolving field of cancer research. Together we will work towards a better understanding of how
to prevent, treat, care for and control cancer in children.
Trish Matheson, CFRE, Director of Development & Communications
Contact me at 403.216-9210, ext 224 or by e-mail at matheson@kidscancercare.ab.ca
SPRING 2005 LEGACY
SEMINAR SERIES:
“Wills, Estates and Endof-Life
Issues”
A free public service
event presented by Leave
A LegacyCalgary
When: Tuesday, May 17
& Wednesday,
May 18, 2005
3 sessions daily
Where: Red & White
Club
Contact: For more detailed
information, contact Trish
Matheson at 403.216.9210
ext.224 or by e-mail at
matheson
@kidscancercare.ab.ca.
Leave a Legacy Calgary
(LALC) is a collaborative,
community-based effort
to raise awareness and
promote the benefits of
planned giving through
financial and estate
planning. LALC is
working to help people
better understand their
capacity to make a gift to
a charity of their choice.
Across the country, hospitals are facing severe (~30%) shortages of Pediatric
Oncologists. Alberta is no exception. Physicians and researchers are being
aggressively recruited and cities that can’t offer strong incentives are losing out.
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca
9

Volunteer Profile — Avril Andrus
Many great people work in the nursing profession; our very own
KCCFA volunteer, Avril Andrus is one of those. As a registered
oncology nurse with the Drumheller Community Cancer Centre,
Avril exemplifies what it means to be a caring, compassionate and
dedicated professional.
Since 2003, Avril has provided nursing support at Camp SunMaker.
Never one to shy away from getting involved with the essence of
camp, Avril enjoys interacting with the KCCFA campers and taking
part in all activities.
Featured volunteer Avril
Andrus (right) with fellow
volunteer Nicole
Archambault (left)
Avril is highly respected both within her professional and personal
life. Her dedication and exemplary patient care was recognized by
the Alberta Cancer Board with the 2004 V. Glenn Sundstrom
Award for Patient Service. Nominated by Elaine and Don Robertson, Avril was described as being
able to “perform her multitude of tasks in a very positive, respectful and dignified manner…her
integrity and thoughtfulness are above reproach.”
Whether Avril is treating patients at the Drumheller Community Cancer Centre or out at Camp
SunMaker she provides everyone with the best care possible. With a smile and friendly approach
Avril gives of herself both professionally and personally, acting as a role model for all.
Board Profile — Wayne Berg
“It is well to give
when asked, but
it is better to
give unasked,
through understanding.”
– Kahlil Gibran, “On
Giving” The Prophet,
1923.
Why did you choose to support KCCFA by becoming a board
member?
I am a parent of a child cancer survivor, I have firsthand experience with
the programs and fundraising activities that KCCFA hosts and I believe
in the organization. I am honoured and excited about being a member
of the Board of Directors.
How is your child today?
Jillian was diagnosed with wilms tumour in 1999. With the assistance
of the terrific pediatric oncology team at the Alberta Children’s
Hospital, and the ongoing support of KCCFA, Jillian is now cancerfree
and living a very normal and happy life as a grade 5 student at
Milton Williams School for Fine Arts.
What is your background?
I am a vice president & branch manager for the Calgary Main office of HSBC Bank of
Canada. I am a native Calgarian, but graduated from the University of Alberta with a B.Sc. in
Agricultural Economics and worked in many centres throughout Western Canada. I am also
president of The Hong Kong-Canada Business Association.
Wayne has been a rider with the Trico Homes Ride for a Lifetime and chairs our research fundraising
initiative for the Centre for Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics.
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www.kidscancercare.ab.ca

Golfing Has Never Been So Good
KCCFA is fortunate to be the recipient of several top-notch golf tournaments organized by volunteers in
our community. Come out and support one, or all, of the following, knowing that your day of golf will
benefit the kids.
Cargill Foods Golf Tournament
Our thanks to the folks at Cargill Foods who have been supporting KCCFA through this tournament
for six years. Funds raised through this event are designated towards the areas of Clinical
Support and Research. Enjoy an awesome day of golf and help them make a difference in this 7th
annual tournament.
When: Thursday, June 16, 2005
Where: Highwood Golf and Country Club, High River
Time: 11:30 am registration, 1:00 pm Shotgun Start
Cost: $200
Contact: Dianne Riva Cambrin at 403.652.8440
Don, Joanne & the Coach Golf a Kid to Camp
Don, Joanne & the Coach are back with one of their summer highlights...and ours. Join them as
they combine fun and golf to raise money to send kids who have been affected by cancer to a funfilled
week at Camp SunMaker. This 11th annual tournament is sponsored by Arcuri Homes and
Lite’96.
When: Thursday, August 11, 2005
Where: Cottonwood Golf and Country Club
Time: 7:00 am Breakfast start
Cost: $300
Contact: Sara Foster at KCCFA at 403.216.9210 ext.228
Toromont AirX Charity Golf Classic
Toromont Process Systems organizes a stellar golf tournament in beautiful Bragg Creek. This 9th
annual event is a crowd pleaser and it raises money for several of our camp programs, including
SunRise and SunKeeper. It’s a great way to spend a day and a great cause.
When: Monday, August 15, 2005
Where: Redwood Meadows Golf Course
Cost: $225
Contact: Ann Winter at Toromont Process Systems 403.216.6382
Golf a Kid to Cure
A team of childhood cancer survivors organizes this fantastic fall tournament in central Alberta.
No longer kids, these survivors are giving back by raising money for childhood cancer research.
Join the fun and support their efforts.
When: Thursday, Sept.15 – Banquet Dinner & Silent Auction
Friday, Sept.16 – Golf Tournament
Where: Alberta Springs Golf Resort in Sylvan Lake
Cost: Golf $150, Dinner $100
Contact: Todd Plotnikoff 403.347.3300
Coming
Events
Emergency
Services Respond…
to find a cure
9-1-1 Life Shavers –
Join us on Friday,
June 10 at noon at
Olympic Plaza where
emergency response
personnel will shave
their heads to raise
money for childhood
cancer. Participating
organizations include
Police, Fire, Emergency
Medical Services and
RCMP. Since it began
in 1999, 9-1-1 Life
Shavers has helped
raise over one million
dollars for the Kids
Cancer Care Foundation
of Alberta.
Hbc Run for Canada
The Hbc Foundation is
gearing up for a brand
new event on Canada
Day – Friday, July 1.
In seven cities across
the country, they are
hosting a 10km run, a
3km family walk and a
1km kids run in
Calgary with primary
proceeds going to
KCCFA.
Get your family or a
team together and
designate KCCFA as
your preferred charity.
To register or for more
information, visit
www.hbcrunforcanada.ca
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca
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Board of Directors
Jack Perraton, CM, QC, Chair
Bill Smith, QC, Secretary
Wayne Berg
Pattie Culver
Cindy Gibson
A. Joni Hughes
Dr. Randy Johnston
Bob Millar
Brad Stevens
Dr. Doug Strother
Staff Team
Christine Wandzura
M.S.M., CFRE
Chief Executive Officer
Christopher Baptiste
Program Assistant (part-time)
Nicole Bruton
Residential Camp Coordinator
Sara Foster
Special Events Coordinator
Tim Ireland
Community Outreach Coordinator
Mike MacKay
Camp & Community Program Director
Candice Martin
Development Associate
Trish Matheson, CFRE
Director of Development &
Communications
Jodi McNabb, CFRE
Campaign Manager
Ryan Murray
Special Events Assistant (part-time)
Kristie Pshyk
Community Events Manager
Barbara Smeltzer
Volunteer Manager
Volunteer Opportunities
Cargill Golf Tournament
Held at the Highwood Golf and Country Club in High River on Thursday, June 16, this annual
tournament needs four volunteers to help out with registration, act as hole spotters and food
runners between 1 and 6:30 p.m. After the golf tournament ends volunteers are welcome to stay
for the evening’s program including a prime rib dinner.
Don, Joanne and the Coach Golf a Kid to Camp 2005
The beautiful Cottonwood Golf Course will host this popular annual fundraiser on Thursday,
August 11. In order to ensure the success of this event we are looking for the assistance of 20 to
25 volunteers to help out with registration, hole assistance, silent auction and much more!
Development Researcher – We are looking for someone who is detailed and Internet savvy to
take on the responsibility of volunteer researcher to support the revenue development team. The
work involves researching prospective corporations and foundations for proposal information.
The time requested is one to two times a week at the office and hours are flexible. This will
appeal to someone who is interested in gaining fundraising and research experience. Training will
be provided.
There are a variety of special events, shaves, and Camp and Community programs that offer
exciting opportunities to get involved. For more information please contact Barb Smeltzer at
403.216.9210 ext. 222 or by email at smeltzer@kidscancercare.ab.ca.
We’ve MOVED!
We are still in the same location,
just one floor up.
Our new address is:
609 - 14 Street N.W.,
Suite 302
Calgary, AB T2N 2A1
2004 Camp volunteers taking time to volunteer for a photo.
RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO:
609 - 14 Street N.W., Suite 302
Calgary, AB T2N 2A1
Phone: 403.216.9210
Fax: 403.216.9215
Toll Free: 1.888.554.2267
email: staff @kidscancercare.ab.ca
www.kidscancercare.ab.ca
Newsletter Editor, Lynda Phelan
Camp & Community Research Clinical Support
Mailings: We appreciate the opportunity to communicate with you about the activities of the Foundation; however, if you would like to alter the amount or
type of mail you receive, please call us at 403.216.9210, ext. 227 or e-mail at staff@kidscancercare.ab.ca.
Canadian Publications
Agreement # 4004962
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www.kidscancercare.ab.ca