brainstorm - brain tumour

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75 th Edition In this issue: “It’s a funny story about how the world works.” | Youth Philanthropy on the Rise | Taking Care of the Caregiver Support Group Launches in Barrie, Ontario “Our lives changed so quickly and I remember wondering what others in our situation were going through...” When Jen Anderson got the news about her husband’s brain tumour diagnosis in 2008, one of the first steps she took was to see if there was a support group in her city. At the time there wasn’t, but having launched this past February, there is now a Brain Tumour Support Group available to patients, survivors, loved ones and caregivers in the Barrie area. Jen plays two roles as a member of the Barrie group: she serves as meeting convenor and as a participant. Looking back on the inaugural meeting, she says sharing her experiences as a wife and caregiver of a brain tumour patient was very therapeutic. “It was nice to see people laughing and using humour to talk about certain things,” she adds. “It was evident that people were very comfortable in the setting and I could see it making a difference already. “ Explore the New Braintumour.ca In response to your requests for more information, more ways to make connections with the brain tumour community across Canada, and a clearer understanding of how you can help, a new and improved Braintumour.ca is here. This new website is for everyone. Whether you are a patient or caregiver, health care professional, volunteer or Spring Sprint participant, donor or simply visiting, the new Braintumour.ca offers you a fresh look and easier ways to connect to information and others. You will find: Spotlight on the newest brain tumour programs and services available to you. A complete calendar of upcoming events that includes everything from support groups and education opportunities, to community events and Spring Sprint More stories that highlight the approximately 55,000 Canadians affected by a brain tumour An improved message and chat section to help you connect with others More information about all of the ways you can make a gift to help find the cause of and a cure for brain tumours Details about volunteer opportunities available across Canada Please explore the new site. It is for you. Your feedback is important. Please share your comments or questions with: Megan Winkler Marketing and Communications Specialist 1-800-265-5106 /519-642-7755 ext. 232 [email protected] ISSUE 75 / SPRING 2011 Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada Newsletter BrainStorm Continued on page 2 Kelly MacLeod (leſt) and Jen Anderson (right) A snapshot of the new Braintumour.ca homepage

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Page 1: BrainStorm - Brain Tumour

75th EditionIn this issue: “It’s a funny story about how the world works.” | Youth Philanthropy on the Rise | Taking Care of the Caregiver

Support Group Launches in Barrie, Ontario

“Our lives changed so quickly and I remember wondering what others in our situation were going through...”When Jen Anderson got the news about her husband’s brain tumour diagnosis in 2008, one of the first steps she took was to see if there was a support group in her city. At the time there wasn’t, but having launched this past February, there is now a Brain Tumour Support Group available to patients, survivors, loved ones and caregivers in the Barrie area.Jen plays two roles as a member of the Barrie group: she serves as meeting convenor and as a participant. Looking back on the inaugural meeting, she says sharing her experiences as a wife and caregiver of a brain tumour patient was very therapeutic. “It was nice to see people laughing and using humour to talk about certain things,” she adds.

“It was evident that people were very comfortable in the setting and I could see it making a difference already. “

Explore the New Braintumour.caIn response to your requests for more information, more ways to make connections with the brain tumour community across Canada, and a clearer understanding of how you can help, a new and improved Braintumour.ca is here.This new website is for everyone. Whether you are a patient or caregiver, health care professional, volunteer or Spring Sprint participant, donor or simply visiting, the new Braintumour.ca offers you a fresh look and easier ways to connect to information and others.

You will find:

•Spotlight on the newest brain tumour programs and services available to you.

•A complete calendar of upcoming events that includes everything from support groups and education opportunities, to community events and Spring Sprint

•More stories that highlight the

approximately 55,000 Canadians affected by a brain tumour

•An improved message and chat section to help you connect with others

•More information about all of the ways you can make a gift to help find the cause of and a cure for brain tumours

•Details about volunteer opportunities available across Canada

Please explore the new site. It is for you.

Your feedback is important. Please share your comments or questions with:

Megan WinklerMarketing and Communications Specialist 1-800-265-5106 /519-642-7755 ext. 232 [email protected]

Issue 75 / sprIng 2011

Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada Newsletter

BrainStorm

Continued on page 2

Kelly MacLeod (left) and Jen Anderson (right)

A snapshot of the new Braintumour.ca homepage

Page 2: BrainStorm - Brain Tumour

“It’s easy to feel helpless when somebody you love has a brain tumour”

2 | BrainStorm Newsletter

Knowing the importance of having a space to share experiences with others in similar situations, Jen works with the support group’s facilitator, Kelly MacLeod, to ensure the group runs successfully. “It’s easy to feel helpless when somebody you love has a brain tumour,” Jen explains. “This is an opportunity where I feel I can give back and do a little bit to ensure that this group is available to help others including my family.”

Share Hope, Join a Support GroupBrain tumour support groups offer a unique opportunity for people with a brain tumour and their loved ones to share experiences and gain emotional support in a safe, relaxed and confidential atmosphere. There are Brain Tumour Support Groups across Canada.

support groups Ajax, On

Belleville,On

Barrie, On

Burlington, On

Calgary, AB

Chatham, On

edmonton, AB

Fredericton, nB

guelph, On

Halifax, ns

Kitchener/ Waterloo, On

London, OnMississauga, OnMoncton, nBnew glasgow, nsniagara region, OnOttawa, Onregina, sKsarnia, Onsaskatoon, sKsault ste. Marie, Onsudbury, OnWindsor, On

The Barrie support group meets the first Wednesday of each month, from 6:30 – 8:30pm, at Gilda’s Club.

Continued from cover

Southern Ontario: April 10, 2011 An afternoon at the John Labatt Centre with the Harlem Globetrotters

Lower Mainland BC: April 9, 2011 Capilano Suspension Bridge

Upcoming BrainWAVE EventsIf you are looking for a way to provide fun, respite and support for your child and family as you face the journey with a pediatric brain tumour, consider joining BrainWAVE.

Upcoming events include:

Thank you to our BrainWAVE program sponsor:

To register for the BrainWAVE program and learn more about these events, contact:Josh peters, Support Services Specialist 1-800-265-5106/519-642-7755 ext. 234 [email protected]

BC BrainWAVE Holiday 2010 event

For more information, please contact: Josh peters, Support Services Specialist 1-800-265-5106/519-642-7755 ext. 234 [email protected]

Details and updates for each group are also available online at www.braintumour.ca, by clicking Care and Support.

No support group near you? Visit our Message Board and participate in our monthly Online Support Chat at www.braintumour.ca.

Research Takes Another Step ForwardResearch into the cause of and cure for brain tumours takes another step forward this year with the awarding of the 2011 brain tumour research grants. Thank you to all of those who submitted proposals; 19 applications were

received this year. Awardees will be announced on April 15, 2011. You can keep on top of brain tumour research advancements by visiting the new Braintumour.ca website and following us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Issue 75 / Spring 2011 | 3

Youth Philanthropy on the RiseYouth philanthropy – it’s the term for children and teens engaged in voluntary giving or service, and it’s a trend on the rise.Today more than ever, youth are getting involved with causes that lay close to their hearts whether it’s through volunteering their time or fundraising (or a combination of both!). In fact, according to a recent nation-wide study of philanthropy and volunteerism, young Canadians are more likely to volunteer than those in any other age group1.

In communities throughout Canada, youth are working to raise awareness and generate dollars for brain tumour research, support, information and education. Here are just a few examples of recent events:

Rockin’ Our Way to a CureAlanna was diagnosed with her brain tumour at 19 months of age. Despite being told at one time that she had only a one percent chance of survival even with surgery and treatment, she has battled the disease and is now in remission. It hasn’t been an easy journey – three surgeries, four years of chemotherapy, and radiation treatments – but since 2002, Alanna has been tumour free.

Music had always been a big part of Alanna’s life, but it has played an even larger role in recent years. In 2010, Alana, with the help of her mother and fellow volunteers, started an annual music event, Rockin’ Our

Way to a Cure. In its first year, the concert took in more than $3,000 and over 100 kids participated in the event.

This year, Rockin’ Our Way to a Cure will be held on Saturday, June 11 in London, Ontario.

Colborne Street Public School – Walk-a-ThonWhen Owen, a young student from Strathroy, Ontario, passed away from a brain tumour in summer 2009, his classmates pledged to raise funds toward brain tumour research and support. This past May, over 450 Colborne Street Public School students took part in a walk-a-thon in Owen’s memory and raised more than $3,600 to help brain tumour patients.

Thank you to this inspiring next generation of philanthropists. Together, we can Imagine a Cure. (12007 Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating, prepared by: Statistics Canada, Imagine Canada and Volunteer Canada)

Going Bald for Bob When Sara’s grandfather, Bob, was diagnosed with a brain tumour, she wanted to find a way to help him and others affected by this devastating disease. At just seven years of age, Sara pledged to cut off her hair and donate it to make wigs for children who have lost their own hair due to cancer treatments. On May 4, 2010, Sara hosted her event and her haircut took place - she raised a total of $7,835.08 to help brain tumour patients. Sadly, Sara’s grandfather passed away shortly after her event, but her invaluable contribution will help efforts to find the cure for and cause of brain tumours.

Alanna rocks her way to a cure - June 2010

Sara raised more than $4,000 at her May 2010 event

Colborne Street Public School students held a walk-a-thon to commemorate their classmate, Owen Stigter (pictured)

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“It’s about reminding them of the important things in life.”

4 | BrainStorm Newsletter

“It’s a funny story about how the world works.” Ryan Fraser is no stranger to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Looking back on his connection to the organization, he says, “It’s a funny story about how the world works.” Ryan became involved with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada after he met Susan Relecom, the organization’s director of development. When asked if he would be interested in helping with a planned giving program, Ryan said he would give it some thought. That night, a friend was rushed to the emergency room where it was discovered she had a brain tumour. Needless to say, Ryan called Susan the next day and pledged his participation. Ryan Fraser and wife Bridget

Working as a certified financial planner, Ryan credits volunteerism for helping him stay grounded in his professional life. Often times he has to have conversations with clients about planning for difficult situations, and he says volunteering reinforces that his job is about helping people “in the same way that Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada is about helping people. It’s about reminding them of the important things in life.”As part of his continued dedication, Ryan works closely with Susan on the Board Fundraising Committee, in particular to help build the organization’s legacy giving program. One of his most memorable experiences was creating a short video that encourages those affected by a brain tumour to make a legacy gift to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Hearing patients and caregivers’ stories “left an incredible mark on my soul and moved me more deeply than I can describe in words,” he says.

Ryan has contributed not only his expertise in legacy giving, but he also trains financial planners to think of charitable giving as a part of their work life. And he doesn’t only teach it– he and his wife Bridget are legacy donors to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada and he makes a monthly gift to assist brain tumour patients. Reflecting on his involvement with the organization, Ryan explains, “Most of all, I enjoy volunteering here because it makes me feel like I’m contributing in some small way towards the day when we finally understand what causes brain tumours, and more importantly, what we can do to prevent them. I would love to have helped bring that day a little bit closer.”

May is Leave a Legacy MonthLearn more at www.leavealegacy.ca or www.braintumour.ca/22/legacy-giving

Legacy Giving When you update your estate plans, will or life insurance coverage, leave a legacy by including Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada as a beneficiary. By planning for a future gift, you help ensure that support, research and education about brain tumours is available to patients and their families, caregivers, and health care professionals for years to come. For more information about Legacy Giving, contact: susan relecom, Director of Development 1-800-265-5106/519-642-7755 ext. 227 [email protected]

Page 5: BrainStorm - Brain Tumour

“Realize that sometimes it’s ok to ask for help from others around”

Issue 75 / Spring 2011 | 5

1. Ask for help – “Realize that sometimes it’s ok to ask for help from others around” – anonymous caregiver of a brain tumour patient

Trying to manage all the caregiver responsibilities on your own will undoubtedly end in burnout. Reach out for support around you; even the best and most loving caregivers need help from others. Family members, friends, health care professionals, volunteers and respite services are all available choices for help. Be realistic and honest with yourself about how much time you can give, and then communicate this with your support system. Accept help from others when it is offered to you.

2. Acknowledge and accept your feelings As a caregiver you may experience many feelings that are new and difficult. Frustration, anger, depression, fear, guilt, resentment, worry and feeling overwhelmed are all normal and common emotions experienced by caregivers. Accept and allow yourself to feel the way that you do, as long as it does not compromise the well-being of the one being cared for.

3. Talk about your feelings – “It’s really important to find and have your own support system, like friends and/or family, who you feel comfortable to talk openly about your feelings and emotions...or vent when necessary!”- anonymous caregiver of a brain tumour patient

Confide in others about the feelings, challenges and successes you experience being a caregiver. Don’t hide your emotions; talk with at least one other person. Find a local caregiver support network, speak with trusted family members and/or friends or consider seeing a counsellor or therapist. You can also attend any of the Brain Tumour Support Groups located across Canada.

4. Knowledge is power Learn as much as you can about the effects of a brain tumour, possible treatments and needs of your loved one. Gaining information about being a caregiver will also help you to best support them. The more you know, the more effective you will be in caring for your loved one and the more satisfied you will feel as a caregiver. Speak with your health care team, other

caregivers and read informative books. You can also order a Patient Resource Handbook (pediatric and adult versions are available).

5. Take time for yourself –“Don’t feel guilty for taking time for yourself! I know for me it took awhile to realize I was actually being a better caregiver when I still take ‘me’ time” - anonymous caregiver of a brain tumour patient

When you are a caregiver it is very important to take time for yourself. You owe it to yourself for the great care you provide to your loved one. Take short breaks often; longer breaks or mini-vacations are also important. Do something that rewards your commitment and effort. When you take breaks, try to stay away and not engage in activities related to your caregiver role. Without these breaks you may not have the emotional or physical strength to handle the extra stress or demands you experience.

6. remember your physical health Eat healthy, exercise regularly, rest and relax. Caregivers often experience extra pressure and stress. Taking care of your physical health will ensure you have the energy to care for your loved one. Maintain your regular health check-ups and see your doctor if you are experiencing physical or emotional difficulties.

7. recognize the signs of caregiver burnout As a caregiver, if you experience burnout it is no longer a healthy or productive situation for you or the care receiver.

Warning signs of caregiver burnout include:

•Physical or emotional harmful behaviour towards care receiver (seek help immediately)

•Lack of energy, always seem to be tired (even after naps or breaks)

•Sudden mood changes or swings, easily angered, increasingly impatient and irritable, frequent crying, deep sadness or depression

•Loss of interest in activities and/or people that you previously enjoyed

•Sudden or large changes in eating habits, sleeping, work performance

•Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches that don’t seem to go away

Josh peters, Support Services Specialist 1-800-265-5106/ 519-642-7755 ext. 234 [email protected]

Lean on usConfidential, toll-free support for brain tumour patients, caregivers and loved ones is available. You can call trained staff members for short-term, empathetic listening and support.

Call 1-800-265-5106 ext. 234 to speak with someone today.

ASk THE ExPERT

Taking Care of the Caregiver Being a caregiver of a loved one with a brain tumour is no easy feat.Many caregivers experience challenges, emotions and life situations that are new to them. It is critical that caregivers take care of themselves.

Page 6: BrainStorm - Brain Tumour

6 | BrainStorm Newsletter

National Volunteer Week - April 10 to 16, 2011 Thank you to each of the dedicated volunteers across Canada whose contributions are bringing hope for those affected by a brain tumour.

2010 Volunteers of Distinction: Lori Wilson, Stephen Wilson, Danielle Griffiths, Ingrid Exner and Michael Kennedy

Volunteers at 2010 Calgary Information Day Conference

2010 Spring Sprint Volunteers 2010 BrainWAVE Volunteers 2010 Spring Sprint Volunteers

NEW Patient and Caregiver Support NetworkIn response to a growing need, a brain tumour patient and caregiver support network is being developed. This network will link compassionate and caring volunteers who have a personal experience with a brain tumour (as a patient, caregiver or parent) with others in similar situations. If you are a good listener and are interested in providing peer-to-peer support by telephone or email to a fellow brain tumour patient or caregiver, this opportunity might be for you.

Support Groupssupport group Facilitator in Chatham, On and niagara, On:The Support Group Facilitator runs the support group meetings, directs the discussion and selects appropriate topics and/or guest speakers for group meetings.

support group Convenor in Belleville, On, Chatham, On and niagara, On:The Support Group Convenor keeps an updated list of group members, conducts outreach in the community to promote the group, and calls group members to remind them of upcoming meetings.

Interested in volunteering? Contact Tanya giannelia, Volunteer Services Specialist, at 1-800-265-5106/519-642-7755 ext. 231 or [email protected].

Volunteer Opportunities

Page 7: BrainStorm - Brain Tumour

Issue 75 / Spring 2011 | 7

Community Events MatterEach year volunteers across Canada organize a variety of events that raise important funds for brain tumour support, education, information and research while increasing awareness about this disease. Community events provide the opportunity to pay tribute to the courage of a loved one affected by a brain tumour while meeting others in your community.

With community events, the sky is the limit when it comes to creativity.

2 0 1 1

Organize a Community Event to Support Your Spring Sprint!Did you know you can increase the success of your local Spring Sprint by coordinating a fun and exciting community event? Find out more at www.springsprint.ca.

Coming This Spring! If you want to learn more about brain tumours, education seminars will be held this spring in Barrie, ON; Edmonton, AB; Saskatoon, SK; Moncton, NB; Ottawa, ON and Vancouver, BC. These free seminars are half-day sessions focused on the latest developments in brain tumour research, treatments and quality-of-life issues. These events are open to anyone affected by a brain tumour: survivors, patients, family members and health care professionals.

Popular types of events include:

Bowling eventsDress-down DaysFitness Challengesgarage salesFashion and Talent shows

sports TournamentsCraft shows and BazaarsHead-shaving/ Haircut eventsCar Washes

Thank you to everyone who organized or took part in a community event last year. These events raised over $200,000.

For ideas and help with your community event, contact: eileen Quigg, Community Events Officer 1-800-265-5106/519-642-7755 ext. 224 [email protected]

edmonton saturday, April 30, 2011 9:00am-12:00 Noon Zane Feldman Auditorium, Cross Cancer Institute

Barrie saturday, May 28, 20119:00am – 12:00 Noon Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka

saskatoon saturday, June 11, 2011 9:00am-12:00 Noon Auditorium, City Hospital

Ottawasaturday, June 18, 2011 9:00am-12:00 Noon Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ottawa, Room 1305-1308

Moncton Details coming soon

Vancouver Details coming soon

Learn more about education seminars at www.EducationDays.ca.

Dr. Katrin Schienemann at London Information Day 2010

Dr. Del Maestro and Nicole at London Information Day 2010

Dr. Bruce Crooks at Halifax Information Day 2010

Gabriela Ostendorfer tells her story at Calgary Information Day 2010

Coming Soon: Brain Tumour Information Day ConferencesWatch for details about the annual fall events taking place in Calgary, AB; London, ON; and Halifax, NS. Check www.InfoDays.ca

2010 Information Day DVDs now Available Order your 2010 Brain Tumour Information Day Conference DVD today by contacting sue ruypers, Research and Education Specialist, at 1-800-265-5106/519-642-7755 ext. 240 or [email protected].

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Information About Brain Tumours is AvailableIf your life has been changed by a brain tumour, we’re here to help. Information for anyone affected by a brain tumour (both malignant and non-malignant, as well as primary or secondary) is available, including:

An Adult or pediatric patient resource Handbook (English and French)

A Friend in Hope Children’s storybook (Available in English, French and Italian)

Information sheets about commonly asked brain tumour questions

Brain Tumour 101: A good place to start learning about brain tumours.

This presentation explores things like:

•What is a Brain Tumour?

•The difference between ‘primary’ and ‘secondary’ as well as ‘non-malignant’ and ‘malignant’

•Brain tumour diagnosis

•Treatment and tumour types

Learn more at Braintumour.ca or contact Janic gorayeb, Health Information Specialist, at 1-800-265-5106/519-642-7755 ext. 233 or [email protected]

The BrainStorm newsletter is published four times a year (twice in print and twice through e-mail) by Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Feel free to share your story with a brain tumour with us. We welcome story ideas and comments so please write us or subscribe at Braintumour.ca.

If you have been affected by a brain tumour, many services and programs are available:Patient Resource HandbookChildren’s StorybookSupport GroupsInformation & Support Line 1-800-265-5106Online Chat RoomInformation Day Conferences and Education SeminarsBrainStorm NewsletterBrainWAVE – our children & teen support program

Board of DirectorsChairDr. Joseph MegyesiVice ChairChantalle ButlerSecretaryShauna MacDougallTreasurerPatricia Klein

Executive Director Susan Marshall

DirectorsMarjory Buttrum Sarah Keels Jeane King Marianne E. Lee Maryanne MacDonald Alykhan Mamdani John Stevenson Sean Taggart Fred Wilder

Our Mission Our Mission is to reach every person in Canada affected by a brain tumour through support, education, information and research. Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada is funded solely through generous contributions from individuals, corporations, organizations, employee groups and fundraising events.

BrainStormPlease visit our website at www.braintumour.ca with regard to our privacy policy. If you wish to update your address or be removed from our mailing list, please contact us directly at 1-800-265-5106.

Registered Charitable Number: BN118816339RR0001 Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada

620 Colborne Street, Suite 301London, ON N6B 3R9Tel.:519-642-7755•1-800-265-5106www.braintumour.ca

We have adopted the:Visit us online:

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Spring Sprint

An Olympic athlete, a mother and a newlywed: three women living different lives, in different parts of the country, united in the fight against brain tumours. For Cheryl Bernard, Olympic medal-winning curler from Calgary, Alberta, it was her father’s courageous journey with a Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) that inspired her to get involved and raise awareness. In Hamilton, Ontario, Paula Skowronski’s teenage son’s headache that would not go away led the family on an inspirational journey. Subtle symptoms like

a numb left hand prompted Sarah Ramsden to visit a Toronto walk-in clinic just weeks after her wedding. Today she is a brain tumour survivor. For these women, the unexpected diagnosis of a brain tumour not only changed their lives but brought them into the effort to provide hope through Spring Sprint. This year, each of them and thousands of Canadians like them, will take part in one of the 21 Spring Sprint events to raise funds for brain tumour support, education, information and research.

Share Your StoryDo you want to share your story? If your life has been touched by a brain tumour, visit the Share your Story section at braintumour.ca and record your journey. Your story may be used on the website to provide inspiration and hope to others.

You may also be contacted to share your story to help raise awareness about brain tumour support, education, information and research.

Together, we can Imagine a Cure.

Cheryl’s Story As an elite athlete, Cheryl Bernard faces challenges head-on with determination and force. Her father’s diagnosis with a GBM was no different and she quickly found herself focusing a great deal of her energy on treatment, appointments and care. “It changed my life,” she explains. “I pretty much moved in with my parents to help them manage it all.”

“My dad and I were incredibly close and I was angry at the diagnosis...and did everything and anything to find a cure.” Today Cheryl is helping the efforts to find a cure by acting as a spokesperson for Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada and the Spring Sprint. “I hope that the funds raised through Spring Sprint help create technological and surgical advances and ultimately find a cure for brain tumours.”

Paula’s StoryIn Hamilton, Paula Skowronski and her entire family have rallied around Jacob, a grade 12 student, whose malignant tumour has led to surgery and chemotherapy. It has been a rapid education for Jacob and his large, dedicated family including his parents, step-parents and siblings. “Jacob has four loving parents and a really good support system,” says his mother, Paula. Paula has channelled her energy by volunteering as the coordinator of Hamilton’s Spring Sprint. Each member of the family is pitching in to help, even the youngest members, to raise money

To register or for more information about Spring Sprint, visit www.springsprint.ca or call 1-800-265-5106 today.

Cheryl, Paula and Sarah are just three examples of the many faces and stories that make up each Spring Sprint. This year, 21 Spring Sprints take place across Canada with the goal to raise $1.4 million. More than 4,000 participants are expected to attend and each one has their own story of why they are involved and for whom they are Sprinting. Participants raise pledges for support, education and information programs and to invest in research into the cause of and cure for brain tumours. Everyone is invited to join the thousands of survivors, families and friends who will walk, run or jog the event routes.

Survivors, Families and Friends From Across Canada are the Heart and Hope of Spring SprintWho are you sprinting for?

Spring 2011

Survivors connect at the 2010 Guelph Spring Sprint

for Team Jacob, the family’s Spring Sprint team. This includes brother Quinton (8) and sisters Chloe (8) and Sophie (12) who have raised more than $3,000 by selling handmade bracelets.

Sarah’s StoryIn the fall of 2009, Sarah was busy adjusting to married life after a July wedding and the changes brought on by a new job and home after a move from Alberta to Ontario. Then the fall honeymoon trip to Paris, France was delayed when the subtle symptoms she had been experiencing were diagnosed as a Meningioma brain tumour.

Having never been admitted to a hospital before, she was scared about the prospect of brain surgery. “It went really well and they got everything out. They wanted to let me out after a day and half!” she adds.

Today Sarah has returned to work, is back to her fitness regime, and volunteering as the coordinator for the Virtual Run. “It’s for people who have signed up for a Sprint, did fundraising and suddenly found out that they can’t attend. Or those who can’t run but still want to fundraise,” explains Sarah. “Maybe they don’t have a Sprint in their community but they can gather people to raise money and do it online, together.”

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Find a Spring Sprint Near You!Belleville, ONSaturday, June 11Zwicks Park, Hill PavilionRoute: 2.5K and 5K

David Bloom Memorial Brampton, ONSunday, May 1Professor’s Lake Rec. CentreRoute: 3K and 10K

Calgary, ABSunday, June 12North Glenmore Park Community CentreRoute: 2.5K, 5K and 10K

Chatham/Kent, ONSaturday, May 7Ridgeview Moravian Public School (Ridgetown, ON)Route: 2K and 5K

Edmonton, ABSaturday, June 4Hawrelak ParkRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Fredericton, NBSaturday, May 28Hugh John Flemming Forestry CentreRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Guelph, ONSaturday, May 14Guelph ArboretumRoute: 2.5K, 5K and 10K

Halifax, NSSaturday, May 14Dalhousie Wickwire Soccer FieldRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Hamilton, ONSaturday, May 7Dofasco Park FH Sherman Rec. Centre (Stoney Creek, ON) Route: 2.5K and 5K

Kitchener/ Waterloo, ONSunday, May 15Waterloo ParkRoute: 2.5K and 5K

London, ONSaturday, April 16Springbank GardensRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Lloydminster, ABSunday, May 29Bud Miller ParkRoute: 5K

Montreal, QCSaturday, June 4Angrignon ParkRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Ottawa, ONSunday, June 5Andrew Haydon Park BandshellRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Saskatoon, SKSunday, June 5Meewasin TrailRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Sudbury, ONSunday, June 13College BorealRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Toronto, ONSaturday, April 30Sunnybrook Park, Sports PavilionRoute: 5K

Vancouver, BCSunday, May 29Burnaby Lake East Rowing PavilionRoute: 5K

Victoria, BCSaturday, May 28Cedar Hill Recreation CentreRoute: 3.5K

Windsor, ONSaturday, June 4Riverside Sportsmen ClubRoute: 5K

Winnipeg, MBSunday, June 5Assiniboine Park, Duck PondRoute: 2.5K and 5K

Virtual RunAnytime: April 16 to June 12Route: Your choice

National Sponsors:

Brain tumours are more common than people think. It is estimated that more than 55,000 Canadians are living with a brain tumour and more than 10,000 are newly diagnosed each year.The contributions and gifts we receive are used to provide support and information to the thousands of Canadians who are affected by brain tumours and to fund vital research. It is through generous support like yours that we have been able to do so much for so many since 1982. Thank you.

What’s New This Year? You will find a number of new things happening this year to make Spring Sprint even more exciting and efficient - you are sure to enjoy your participation in this fun and inspiring event!

Visit www.springsprint.ca to access new, easy online registration processes and tools:

•You will receive a pledge form by e-mail when you register and can access additional copies via your online fundraising page

•You can manage and tally your cash and cheques online with the new Results Form

•You can watch the growth of your fundraising totals with a thermometer on your personal fundraising page

• E-Cards are available to both let someone know you have contributed to their fundraising and to thank anyone who donates to you

•A new Team Captain Manual to help make your team the best it can be

•Virtual Run – you can participate wherever you may be!

Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada 620 Colborne Street, Suite 301 London, ON N6B 3R9 Tel: 519-642-7755 1-800-265-5106 www.braintumour.ca

National Platinum Sponsor:

Participate anywhere by joining the Virtual Run. Fundraise and walk, run or sprint in your community!

Visit us online:

Lace Up Your Sneakers!

Join the thousands of Canadians helping to improve the quality of life for those individuals and families affected by a brain tumour.Register now at www.springsprint.ca or call 1-800-265-5106

We have adopted the:

In 2010, 4,500 participants took part in 21 Spring Sprints across Canada