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April 2024
Dear community...
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Martine Elias, Chief Executive Officer | |
"Myeloma Canada volunteers are not only our lifeline to our Canadian and international myeloma community, but they facilitate our ability to support life-changing Canadian myeloma research, influence government and health agencies on critical drug access issues and inequities.
The funds you raise and the active roles you play in Myeloma Canada enable us in turn, to create, nurture and leverage essential relationships with other patient organizations and myeloma research partners."
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I - Just launched!
Myeloma Canada science and research impact report 2023
Your 2023 impact on Canadian scientific and research advancements
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On April 3rd, we were thrilled to launch our 2023 science and research impact report. (To read the announcement, click here, or better yet, download the actual Impact report here!)
In pursuit of a cure and prevention
Throughout the year, our combined fundraising efforts and activities pave the way for our ability to invest in promising science and research projects, as well as important advocacy, education, awareness, and community-focused programs, resources and tools.
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In 2023, we directly contributed to investments of over $1.34M in myeloma science and research projects. | |
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Of this amount, over $875K came from money raised through Myeloma Canada fundraising activities, and community fundraising initiatives and events. The balance came from collaborating and leveraging our strategic partnerships with other organizations who share an interest in myeloma and invested in additional myeloma research projects. | |
While we don’t want to give it all away, below are just some of the exciting highlights of our 2023 science and research initiatives:
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3 new grant programs
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10 important partnerships, each one focused on advancing essential Canadian myeloma research
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28+ exciting science and research projects
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Learn more. Download the new Myeloma Canada 2023 science and research impact report. | |
II - Multiple Myeloma: Primary Care Management and Referral | |
Myeloma Canada has partnered with Queen's University to develop an on-demand, accredited learning program intended for primary care providers. Access to the course is free for the first 800 learners thanks to the independent educational support from Green for Life, Binding Site, and Sebia Diagnostics. | |
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III - Aldo Del Col 2024 research grant
For healthcare professionals
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To honour the legacy and memory of Myeloma Canada’s co-founder, the Aldo Del Col Research Grant funds patient-prioritized Canadian research projects that help address the knowledge gaps in the diagnosis and treatment of myeloma and/or related plasma cell disorders that were identified through the Myeloma Priority Setting Partnership (PSP). | |
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Accepting applications until May 31, 2024. | |
I - Gear up to bike for myeloma! The Myeloma Canada Rides start in less than a month! | |
Myeloma Canada's innovative national fundraising event, The Myeloma Canada Ride, is gearing up for its 3rd year this spring, and will be taking place in 6 picturesque Canadian locations along with one virtual Ride.
Whether you're an experienced cyclist or a newcomer to the sport, the Ride is for you.
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Niagara Region Ride, 2022 | |
Form a team or join on your own! Either way, be sure to join us for a day of fun with other cycling enthusiasts. Enjoy breathtaking scenery as you raise funds and awareness for a meaningful cause. The Myeloma Canada Ride is bound to be the cycling experience of a lifetime! | |
II - Rappel to repel myeloma: Join us in scaling new heights!
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Are you driven to test your limits? Do you want to have some serious fun with friends and colleagues and take in amazing views from 324 feet above ground? Do you want to create unforgettable memories while raising funds – and awareness – for a little-known incurable blood cancer that claims the lives of thousands of Canadians each year?
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions,
then The Grand Rappel is most definitely right for you!
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REGISTER TODAY! HELP SAVE LIVES.
Places are limited, don’t miss out! Sign up now.
The Grand Rappel is open to participants 18 years and older. Participants will be asked to show a form of official ID at the event. The minimum fundraising target in order to participate in the Grand Rappel is $1,000 per participant.
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III – The Multiple Myeloma March is back!
Join us for the 16th edition of Myeloma Canada’s Multiple Myeloma March coming to a city near you!
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This fall, communities across Canada will unite to raise awareness and funds for multiple myeloma.
Whether you're a passionate advocate, a dedicated supporter, or someone personally affected by this disease, you can make a difference in the lives of thousands of Canadians.
| We’re committed to reaching our goal of raising $800,000 to help improve the lives of people affected by myeloma, and fund research that’s meaningful to you. | |
Mississauga Multiple Myeloma March, 2023 | |
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Mark the date of your local March in your calendar!
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Invite your friends and family!
Get ready to make a real difference!
Together, we're marching towards a brighter future for those affected by multiple myeloma.
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I - Canada saw myeloma red for Myeloma Awareness Month 2024 | | |
During Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month 2024, we provided our Canadian myeloma community with the tools they needed to raise awareness for this devastating cancer to the general public.
While our official national campaign focused on increasing our digital presence and engagement, so many of you ran with your own community-driven initiatives.
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Thank you to everyone who joined in our global outreach as part of the International Myeloma Foundation’s (IMF) Global Myeloma Action Network (GMAN) campaign. Thanks to combined efforts of all participants, this year’s Myeloma ACTION Month reached an astounding 52.4 million people across 36 countries!
Check out the inspiring global compilation below to hear patients, loved ones, and medical experts alike answer the question, “What is one thing you wish people knew about myeloma?”
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I - Surveys!
We need your voices
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1. Share your experience to help Canadians have access to more treatment options
Myeloma Canada is seeking information from people affected by multiple myeloma regarding talquetamab.
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Talquetamab, a T-Cell–Redirecting GPRC5D Bispecific Antibody, will soon undergo reimbursement review by CADTH’s pan-Canadian Oncology Drug Review Expert Committee (pERC).
Click below to participate:
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If you have any questions, please write to contact@myeloma.ca and indicate “Treatment Survey” in the subject line.
Thank you for your participation and helping your fellow Canadians impacted by myeloma!
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Do you have metastatic (stage IV) advanced cancer? Are you a caregiver to someone with metastatic cancer?
If so, we could use your help.
CCRAN is conducting a pan-tumor biomarker survey in response to the challenges that patients face in accessing timely biomarker testing results and comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP).
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Any metastatic (stage IV)/advanced cancer patient or survivor diagnosed in the past 10 years (or their caregiver on their behalf) is eligible to complete this survey. Data gathered will be used to advocate for timely and equitable access to biomarker testing results, Comprehensive Genomic Profiling and thereby, precision medicines that may help improve patient outcomes in Canada. | |
Help us ensure the patient voice is heard.
Please complete the survey before April 26th 2024.
The survey should only take approximately 20 minutes of your time.
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If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact Cassandra Macaulay at cassandra.m@ccran.org. | |
II - Coming soon: 2023 Advocacy activities recap | |
At first, engaging in advocacy initiatives involving government bodies, officials, drug agencies, and various stakeholders invested in improving the healthcare system or treatment accessibility may appear abstract or a little daunting.
Nevertheless, numerous organizations, such as ours, are inherently suited to negotiate, influence and persuade those who have the authority to enact changes.
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Ontarion Legislative Action Day, 2023 | |
Keep an eye open for a recap of what's been achieved in 2023
under our advocacy pillar.
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What's new at Myeloma Canada | |
I - Drum roll... Here are the winners of the 2023 Myeloma Canada Community Awards! | | |
As is our tradition every Spring, we’re thrilled to introduce you to the winners of the Myeloma Canada Community Awards. These annual awards honour the outstanding achievements of remarkable volunteers within of our Canadian myeloma community. | | |
II - Find YOUR community with MC LOUNGE! | |
MC Lounge is a safe space for Canadians who've seen their lives changed by myeloma. Find your community, local events, and a wealth of information to support you on your journey.
Not yet a member of this new digital platform for connecting with other Canadians living or caring for someone with myeloma? What are you waiting for? Apply today!
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III - A round of applause for Martine and her new role! | | |
It is with great joy and pleasure that we announce the advancement of our well-regarded Executive Director, Martine Elias, to the distinguished position of CEO at Myeloma Canada.
Martine has been the driving force behind numerous achievements and advancements that have shaped Myeloma Canada into the leading organization it is today. The decision to appoint Martine to this critical role reflects her outstanding contributions and leadership.
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Montreal Multiple Myeloma March, 2022 | | |
IV - Congratulations to website super sleuth, Brian Snowdon! | |
Back in January when we launched our new website myeloma.ca, we challenged you to find as many broken links or typos as you could and report them back to us. | |
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The goal? To ensure that our new website provides the best user experience possible and underscore our commitment to continuous improvement. In return, we promised to hold a random draw and award the winner a $100 gift card.
We’re pleased to announce the winner is Brian Snowdon! Brian is also the support group leader for the new Peterborough & Kawartha Lakes Myeloma Support Group.
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Spotlight on Nic Ahola:
Living with multiple myeloma
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"Cancer touches us all in some way. Some of us have personal cancer journeys, and others have supported loved ones through their journeys.
In 2016, my personal cancer journey started during a routine doctor’s visit. I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma."
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I - Myeloma Canada InfoSessions
Throughout the year in cities across Canada, Myeloma Canada hosts InfoSessions for people living with myeloma, their loved ones, and healthcare professionals.
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Rimouski (QC) InfoSession
(in-person – in French)
May 16, 2024
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm (HNE)
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Campbellton (NB) InfoSession
(in-person – in French)
May 18, 2024
9:00 am – 12:00 pm (ADT)
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Penticton (BC) InfoSession
(in-person – in English)
May 23, 2024
12:30 pm – 4:15 pm (PDT)
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II - Myeloma Canada Webinars | |
Join online from the comfort of your own home!
All you need is a computer, tablet or smart phone and an internet connection.
Full information on upcoming and past InfoWebinars is available by clicking here.
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Subscribe to our YouTube channel to view our webinars, presentations and videos.
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Among past webinars available for viewing:
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I - Multiple Myeloma: The Ultimate Test | | |
Thanks to the sale of Danny Wade’s book - which chronicles his journey with myeloma - $11,800 was raised for myeloma.
The amount was split equally ($5,525 each) between Myeloma Canada and l’Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, the hospital where Danny received the allograft that keeps him in remission to this day.
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II - Myeloma was in the house at Perth Curling Club! | |
From March 6 to 9, 2024, curling enthusiasts gathered to raise funds for myeloma while having a blast in a friendly Mini Brier.
The event was sponsored by David R. Bangs Fuels who made a donation match for all funds raised in support of Myeloma Canada! 18 teams met on the ice, created discussions around myeloma and raised $4,000!
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This gathering strengthened the Perth curling community through the sharing of facts and personal stories, raising the spirits of all who attended.
Congratulations on a rockin’ event!
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Turn your passion into a fun fundraising event.
We can show you how!
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Visit the ‘Get involved’ section of our website for ideas on how to transform your passion into a fundraiser!
For more information, contact:
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Myeloma Canada is here to support you along every phase
of your myeloma journey.
Please consult our website at myeloma.ca for up-to-date news and information,
as well as the following helpful links:
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Myeloma Canada's promise: To improve the lives and empower all Canadians affected by myeloma, accelerate access to the best care, while supporting the pursuit of its cure and prevention. | |
Follow us on social media for the most up-to-date information and resources: | |
Si vous préférez recevoir vos communications en français, écrivez-nous à contact@myelome.ca. | |
To donate to Myeloma Canada
please visit myeloma.ca or call us toll-free at 1-888-798-5771.
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