Without the support of donors, Cain wouldn’t have received his life-saving surgery in Manitoba. It’s through the generosity of donors just like you that cancer surgeon Dr. David Perrin was recruited to CancerCare Manitoba. Before Dr. Perrin’s arrival all patients requiring surgery for bone cancers had to be referred out of province.

Cain received treatment closer-to-home, which has been important to his ongoing recovery. When his brother and sister were able to visit him in the hospital there was something truly magical about the healing power of kids playing together.

This benefitted all of us as a family.

As someone who cares for the welfare of others, we hope Cain’s courage inspires you to make a gift this holiday season.

Less than one year ago our lives were changed forever when Cain was diagnosed with an aggressive form of bone cancer. Before that he was a healthy, active kid who loved running around outside with his younger brother and sister. We never imagined one of our children would get a cancer diagnosis.

In the summer of 2021 Cain slipped on some rocks and banged his shin bone badly. Then, over the Christmas holidays, he began walking differently. When we looked at his leg, we saw the bruising on his shin had returned.

At the Minnedosa hospital on New Year’s Eve Cain underwent a leg x-ray, and upon seeing the results, the doctor immediately scheduled an MRI at CancerCare in Winnipeg the next day. This is when we understood that this wasn’t just a leg injury.

Our worst fears were confirmed. The MRI revealed a large tumour in Cain’s right tibia. Once we received the official osteosarcoma cancer diagnosis Cain’s battle with cancer began.

Sitting in the doctor’s office in shock, it was Cain who started courageously asking the questions we wanted to, but couldn’t…

“Will I need surgery?”, “What are the chances of my survival?” and “Will I lose my leg?”.

It was important to us that Cain consent to his treatment. We had taught him the concept of “my body, my choice,” and initially he was scared about his options, including possible leg amputation. Thankfully donors like you have funded counselling services that helped Cain understand and agree to all his treatment options.

Within a week, Cain began his chemotherapy which was so intense that he often required hospitalization. We have had too many stays at the hospital this year. He’s away from home and his siblings during these times and it’s hard for him. It’s hard for all of us.

By donating today, your gift will help researchers discover alternative ways to treat bone cancers.

By becoming a monthly donor—a Champion of Discovery—you can ensure your gifts are directed to support research. Research Cain desperately needs since his type of cancer can reoccur, though it is not something we dwell on… at least we try not to.

And if Cain’s cancer does return one day, chemotherapy may no longer be a treatment option for him because his body has had as much as it can handle. We hope you will consider joining as a Champion of Discovery this holiday season.