|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
09/29: MLA encourages British Columbians to nominate exceptional caregivers
First annual BC Cancer Agency Community Care Award open to nominations
This month, Kelowna-Mission MLA Sindi Hawkins celebrates her two year anniversary of returning to work after undergoing a bone marrow transplant for acute myeloid leukemia. She credits her recovery in part to the exceptional care she received from community health professionals.
“As a former nurse in cancer care for 12 years, I have crossed paths with numerous caregivers who go above and beyond their jobs,” says Hawkins. “And in my journey fighting cancer, I experienced first hand from a patient’s perspective the generosity and compassion of these individuals, whether they are doctors, nurses, pharmacists or counsellors.”
Having experienced the benefit of community care, both as a supporter and survivor, Hawkins encourages British Columbians to nominate community caregivers for the first annual BC Cancer Agency Community Care Award. The award recognizes those community caregivers who go above and beyond in providing support to cancer patients.
“It is important that we acknowledge their work and dedication to helping cancer patients in communities across the province,” says Hawkins.
“As an organization providing care through networks across British Columbia, the BC Cancer Agency wants to pay tribute to the valuable contributions our community partners make,” explains Ursula Lee, BC Cancer Agency Fraser Valley Centre oncologist. “Every day we hear stories about the many people who go far beyond the call of duty to help improve the lives of people living with cancer. This award will acknowledge the amazing caregivers in our communities.”
Any community caregiver is eligible for the award, for example, nurses, volunteers, physiotherapists, hospice workers, family doctors, or surgeons, to name a few. Sponsored by the BC Cancer Foundation, nominations for the BC Cancer Agency Community Care Award are being accepted from anywhere in British Columbia.
One nominee will be chosen to receive the award by a panel of caregivers, community supporters, and patients. The award recipient will be announced on November 24 at the BC Cancer Agency’s annual award banquet in Vancouver. Travel and accommodation will be provided. Nominations can be made by filling out the nomination form online at www.bccancer.bc.ca, or by calling 604.877.6216, or toll free at 1.800.663.3333, ex 6216. The deadline for nominations is October 10, 2006.
The BC Cancer Agency, a part of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. The BC Cancer Foundation raises funds to support research and enhancements to patient care at the BC Cancer Agency.
For more information, please contact:
Jinny Wu
Communications Specialist
BC Cancer Agency
604.877.6272
Toll-free: 1.800.663.3333, ex 6272
jwu2@bccancer.bc.ca
|
|
|