Research - Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada

13InformationInformation through the Brain Tumour Handbooks,children’s storybook and information kits empowerpatients and their loved ones to learn more aboutthe brain tumour journey and to be the strongestadvocates for their best care.Programming dedicated to health care professionalsprovides learning opportunities and workshopsacross the country. As a result, relationships are builtwith the health care community and specializedinformation increasingly reaches those affected. And,health care teams are better prepared to care forand support those diagnosed with a brain tumour.In 2012, over 500 participants from themedical community joined workshopsand in-service presentations – a 47%increase compared to 2011.“As an oncology nurse and patientnavigator, I have ordered the Adult andPediatric Brain Tumour Handbooks andother resources for my patients. Thematerials have provided me with an easyand concise resource of informationto help support patients and theirfamilies through the brain tumourjourney. I was very pleased to hearabout the medical team and the researchthat guides Brain Tumour Foundation ofCanada’s materials. I can feel confidentthat the information included is currentand best practice.As a health care professional I now feelmore confident in providing guidanceand brain tumour information to patientsand their families. I can also direct thehealth care professionals at our busycancer centre to appropriate informationabout brain tumours.”Debbie McNairnay, Brandon, MBVolunteersMore than 700 volunteers helped run programsand services for the brain tumour communityacross Canada in 2012. Volunteers give of theirtime and expertise through Spring Sprint, as convenors orfacilitators for support groups, as BrainWAVE event organizersand more. For many, it’s a personal connection to the causethat drives their commitment. Without this support, dedicatedbrain tumour services and programs would not be available.“As a recent brain tumour survivor, volunteeringwith Spring Sprint and Brain Tumour Foundation ofCanada has given me a sense of place andcommunity, and allowed me the chance togive back to individuals and families who arefacing tough challenges in their lives. I cannotimagine not being involved in this organization.”“Christina Hagberg, Vancouver, BCTwo years ago my daughter Vicki lost her battlewith a brainstem glioma. As a family, wetreasured the times that we escaped her realityand did something fun together. BrainWAVEis devoted to providing just such times for childrenand their families whose “normal” is facingdifficult challenges every day due to a braintumour. Volunteering with BrainWAVE has givenme the opportunity to help organize andparticipate in these special events. The best part iswe get to watch these kids just be kids, whichis the way life should be.Elizabeth Ozard, London, ON”Volunteers at the 2012 Montreal Spring Sprint