by Rhonda Massad
On a very cold morning last Friday, December 9, the West Island Cancer Wellness Centre (WICWC) officially opened their new doors to those in our community with cancer to help them navigate their journey.
“It is very cold outside, but it is warm inside the centre,” Member of Parliament Francis Scarpaleggia said as he spoke from the outside podium to a crowd of WICWC supporters. “It is a reflection of what it must feel like to have cancer. The world must feel like a cold place. Today the doors will open and provide warmth to those who need it as they navigate through cancer.”
The new “big” yellow house in Kirkland, will be able to serve 600 people each year. The “little” yellow house in Beaconsfield has been serving 250 a year since 2010. The Centre is entirely privately funded, and this move came from a capital fundraising campaign to raise $3 million.
“I am so happy that we will be able to eliminate the waiting list,” said founder Debbie Magwood. “I am filled with joy and pride.”
WICWC is a registered charity dedicated to offering compassionate care and support to anyone experiencing cancer – either having it themselves or supporting someone with cancer.
Without any funding from the government, WICWC continues to rely on the generosity of our community, corporations, foundations and fundraising. All of the programs and services are FREE OF CHARGE and are created to address the emotional, physical and spiritual needs of people living with cancer.
More information can be found at www.wicwc.com
