Joined by Barrie Mayor, Jeff Lehman, the Raw and Reflective calendar committee presented Gilda's Club of Simcoe Muskoka with a cheque for $23,260!
Gilda's Club of Simcoe Muskoka provides free Membership and an evidence-based Cancer Support Program that is designed to decrease cancer-related distress, and ensure that no one faces cancer alone. Their services, including Support Groups, movement classes, social events, educational workshops and more, work as a complement to medical care.
With finance for Gilda's Club coming solely from the community, projects like the Raw and Reflective Calendar are essential in helping keep their doors wide open. This year, the calendar was able to raise another sizable chunk of money, bumping up the total contributions over the last 3 years to over $70,000! Next year, let's help get that number over $100,000.
So, what is the Raw and Reflective Calendar? Each one features 12 people from around the region living with cancer. Each month's image is created by some of the best photographers in the area and also includes courageous stories and perspectives from each individual.
The calendar is also a reminder to everyone that cancer is still the leading cause of death in Canada. Last year, cancer numbers reached record highs and the Raw and Reflective Calendar Committee wants to stress just how important early detection is. It can be a lifesaver.
With hospitals like the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre having to prioritize certain aspects of health care, things like cancer support have had to take a back seat, making places like Gilda's Club even more important for those battling cancer. "This is such a beautiful project on every level...It shows how committed and passionate we are as a community," said Jeff Lehman at the cheque presentation.
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You can still pick up a Raw and Reflective Calendar from a few places around Barrie including Connect Hair Studio or head over to the website and order one online. They only cost $20 and the money will help Gilda's Club continue their life-changing work.
