At the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS), we are committed to uniting and inspiring people in Canada to change the future of cancer, advancing life‑saving research and compassionate support for countless people across the country. CCS funds high-performance research that improves cancer outcomes and addresses the greatest opportunities for progress. We are advocating for progress and change in pressing areas of cancer policy, including prevention, access, affordability and support. And we provide the highest quality cancer information, promote cancer prevention and provide targeted support to help people experiencing cancer and their loved ones.
Our impact is far-reaching, targeting even the most underserved communities from coast to coast. We work nationally to maximize donor dollars, benefiting families in Calgary and beyond.
Below are a few of our impact highlights from 2024/2025 that have been made possible thanks to the exceptional support of our donors and volunteers:
Invested $3.4M to support 14 cancer research projects in Calgary – innovating world-first treatments. Advanced 49 cutting-edge clinical trials in Alberta through the Canadian Cancer Trials Group (CCTG).
616 people experiencing cancer and their caregivers in Alberta received a ride to their appointments through the CCS Wheels of Hope program, for a total of 14,035 one-way trips!
Progressed advocacy work through 67 CCS-championed policy changes and engagement with over 1000 elected officials and policy makers. Following CCS media releases, public engagement activities, and testimony before federal committees, several provinces revised or announced their intent to revise, their screening guidelines to expand breast cancer screening eligibility to those aged 40-49. In Quebec, screening was expanded to include those aged 70-74. These changes align with similar measures in Alberta.
Supported people experiencing cancer as they cope with isolation and anxiety. Across Alberta, 1400 people accessed essential support online and through our dedicated Cancer Information Helpline (phone, email and chat).
Progressing Cancer Research for Families in Calgary
Due largely to research, 64% of people diagnosed with cancer in Canada today are expected to survive 5 years or more, compared to only 25% in the 1940s. Here are some of the amazing breakthroughs happening right here in Alberta:
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Canada. A CCS-funded, groundbreaking clinical trial has proven that physical activity can improve survival for colon cancer. The trail, led by Dr Kerry Courneya at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, and Dr Christopher Booth at Queen’s University in Ontario, shows that a structured exercise program can reduce rates of recurrence, mortality and developing a new primary cancer for people with colon cancer. The 17-year-long international study involved 889 people across 55 hospitals in 6 countries.
Young people experiencing cancer often experience unique, life-changing challenges. With funding from a CCS/Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CCS/CIHR) Cancer Survivorship Team Grant, and with support from the Alberta Cancer Foundation (ACF), Dr May Lynn Quan and her team at the University of Calgary are developing an online application to support young people living with and beyond breast cancer. The app is designed to help these young people build resiliency and coping skills through an educational curriculum and peer support opportunities, with an aim to improve their quality of life.
At the University of Calgary, Dr Linda Carlson is working on a project to address feelings of depression and anxiety in people experiencing advanced cancer. With funding from a CCS Breakthrough Teams Grant, in partnership with Brain Canada, Dr Carlson is building a never-before-seen nationwide network of researchers, clinicians, policymakers and people living with advanced cancer, to study psychedelic-assisted therapy with the goal of establishing research priorities and creating and delivering training to healthcare professionals and researchers throughout the country.
Working Towards a Brighter Future in Cancer
We set ourselves apart from other cancer charities by taking a comprehensive and carefully targeted approach against cancer.
One of Canada’s largest national charitable funders of research into 100+ types of cancer
Educate people in Canada on how to reduce their risk of cancer and how some types of cancer can be found early through screening tests
Support services network helps people with cancer and their loved ones manage life with cancer, find community and connection – building wellness and resilience
Trusted source of information about all types of cancer, with information offered by phone in 200 languages
Advocate to governments and shape health policies to save lives and make living with cancer easier
Together We Can Take Action Against Cancer
Since the Canadian Cancer Society formed in 1938, we have played a leading role in acting against cancer. Without our donors and volunteers, we would not be able to fund research, provide information and services, educate people about how to prevent cancer and advocate for positive changes.
About 2 in 5 people in Canada are expected to be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. We need your support now more than ever.
Here are just a few ways to support our organization, such as:
Volunteering with us is an excellent opportunity for you to make a positive impact in our community, be part of a team, share your experience, learn new skills and develop lasting friendships
Becoming a monthly donor as this form of giving helps reduce administration costs so that more of your donation goes directly to research, programs and services
Giving a gift in honour or memory of a loved one or purchasing a Gift for the Cure
Leaving a legacy gift to make a lasting contribution while reducing or eliminating taxes on your estate
Be a vital voice of change for people in Canada facing delayed health care, families without access to life-giving cancer treatments and caregivers needing support.
Thank you for advancing cancer research, changing outcomes and saving lives.
You are helping to rewrite the cancer stories for people in Calgary and beyond.
