I think, in some way or another, everyone has had their life touched by cancer - whether it’s a parent, grandparent, friend, or friend of a friend… we all know someone. My grandfather passed away from cancer when I was in grade 7 - a long time ago now (over 10 years), but I still remember everything that happened during those last few months.

I just saw (for the millionth time, but I never get sick of it) the commercial for the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation’s Conquer Cancer Campaign, and I can’t get over how powerful it is.

It features real patients, doctors, nurses, and people who have been affected by cancer in some way… and tells the story of how the hospital is trying to conquer cancer in our lifetime.

I hope it can happen.

I spent a few hours this afternoon volunteering my time at the annual Lions Club & CTV Telethon. I was there from 3:30ish until about 8, and it was great fun - talking to community members, reading out pledges, and encouraging people to call in and donate. It was (as one of my fellow hosts made me realize) my first live TV experience, since the work we do at EastLink is pre taped… I didn’t even clue in to that until about halfway though!

I just tuned into the end to see how much was raised - and we raised over $67,000 today! This is thanks to everyone who graciously donated their time to help out, and to the community members who came out and donated… I even recall reading a few donations from youngsters - I’m talking 3 years and 5 years old! - who emptied out their piggy banks to contribute. Very touching.

It’s amazing what can happen when a community pulls together like this!