Every three-year-old should be so lucky to have a celebration like this: the BC Cancer Agency's Vancouver Island Centre third anniversary. To celebrate the landmark, and the advancements made at the centre during this time, the BC Cancer Agency held an open house for the community on Saturday, March 6, 2004.

Visitors to the open house had a chance to experience a day in the life of the centre, with demonstrations in such departments as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, counselling, and pharmacy. There will be tours, lectures, and a chance to see cancer researchers in action. 

The open house theme, "Past, present and future," recognized the Centre's history of treating Vancouver Island cancer patients, and looks forward to the new initiatives and programs anticipated in the coming months and years.

In the time since the Centre was completed and opened, there have already been a number of important clinical and research advances, such as the introduction of Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), the opening of the Deeley Research Centre, and the creation of several exciting clinical trials.

 Visitors toured the centre, participated in hands-on activities, watched demonstrations, and listened to a series of lectures on timely topics.

"This is a great opportunity for our community to learn about the work that goes on here at the BC Cancer Agency," explains Johanna Den Duyf, systemic therapy and community leader. "We enjoyed welcoming our patients, families, and members of the public."