BACKGROUND

After witnessing the devastating impact of cancer on patients, their families, friends and communities, the seeds that inspired INFUSION Canada were sown. INFUSION fills a critical role in the cancer community where no other organization exists. There are amazing organizations that focus on the needs of the juvenile and the adult cancer patient and survivor communities. However, teenage and young adult patients and survivors have unique needs that were not being adequately met by existing organizations.

INFUSION Canada is a federally registered Canadian charity with operating chapters in London, ON and Hamilton, ON.

INFUSION focuses on fostering innovation, leadership and growth in young Canadians supporting cancer survival. Our organization encourages the active participation of patients and survivors in the recovery process by forming support groups, creating opportunities for awareness and education, and developing life and leadership skills.

In addition to promoting cancer awareness and community involvement, INFUSION is a fundraising group. As we have in the past, we will continue this year to raise funds to help young cancer patients and survivors fulfill their dreams of a getting a post-secondary education. We have hosted a series of fundraising events since 2003, raising over $140,000.

Since 2003, INFUSION benefactors include:
Benefactors Amount Purpose
The University of Western Ontario
(RBC Capital Markets 125th Anniversary Healthy Lifestyles Award Fund)
$10,000 $500 per year scholarship in perpetuity
London Health Sciences Centre (London Regional Cancer Program) $22,500 Development of a new radiology wing and pediatric oncology care
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Steven Plunkett
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Brandon Henderson
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Ryan Dobbs
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Erika Emerson
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Ihab Younes
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Andrea Michel
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Teri Stone
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Kaeliegh Barney
INFUSION Bursary Program $2,000 $2,000 bursaries for cancer survivor –
awarded to Jacob Quiring


INFUSION makes an important difference in people’s lives. Here are comments from some cancer survivors helped by the organization:

“I think INFUSION Canada supports a great cause. With my mother having to stop work, it was a bit of a struggle for her in terms of financing. It’s great to get the word out so more people can know what cancer survivors have gone through because many people I’ve come across have been affected either directly or indirectly by cancer.”

—Steve Plunkets, 2004 INFUSION bursary recipient
Cancer survivor, diagnosed with Leukemia in Grade 10.


“As a Cancer survivor, being involved with INFUSION Canada has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I not only get to help in raising money for such an amazing cause, but I have also met some of the most positive and inspiring people of my life. Being able to see so many students that want to make a difference in the lives of Cancer patients and survivors makes me a little stronger each and every day.”

—Vanessa Jordan, INFUSION Canada Director
Cancer survivor, diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer at age 19.

ABOUT INFUSION Fashion Show

The INFUSION Fashion Show is our highest profile fundraising event of the year. Currently entering its 5th year, it is one of the largest and most highly anticipated charity fashion event in the London Community.

This unique show exhibits the latest in fashion, along with highly choreographed dance scenes and music. The clothes appearing in the show are contributions from local high profile fashion retailers, student designers, as well as up and coming Canadian fashion designers. The event includes a raffle, prizes and gift packs. The success of the INFUSION Fashion Show demonstrates the power of collectively working together to improve young lives.

Visit www.infusionfashion.com for more details.