White, gold and red lanterns filled the sky as Local 1006A staff and members lit up the night in London, Ottawa and Toronto to raise more than $20,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).
The Light the Night Walks are about honouring those who have survived, those who have died, and those who are fighting against bloodcancers.
More than 138,000 people in Canada are living with some form of blood cancer. The LLSC reports there are more than 137 types of blood cancers, including lymphoma, leukemia, myeloma and myelodysplastic syndromes.
“I’m proud of the incredible generosity and compassion of our members and their families, who come together throughout the year to help us raise funds and awareness,” said President Wayne Hanley. "As we march, we carry those we have lost in our hearts, and light the night to create hope in the fight against these deadly diseases. I want to thank all of our members, activists and staff for their support — together, we are making a difference.”
Anita Hurley, a 1006A Executive Board Member who works at Swiss Chalet, helped fundraise for the Light the Night walk in London. Anita said she was moved to participate because of the struggle faced by her friend’s daughter with leukemia.
“That was a big motivator for me to raise money and bring awareness to the darkness of cancer,” she said. “It’s a very touching and emotional night and I’m glad to be a part of it.”
Maria Bocangel, a steward who works at a Real Canadian Superstore in Toronto, has been actively promoting the Light the Night walks in her workplace. She held a fundraiser in her community to raise money and brought her co-worker and family to the event. “This is a devastating disease which has affected so many kids and adults,” said Maria. “For me, it is about remembering those who have passed and making our community more aware about how they can support the cause.”
Adam Nott, a steward from Aspect Logistics, came with his co-worker Jonas Hanje to the walk.
“I wanted to show support to anyone who is or has battled cancer and all the families who have lost loved members to this disease. Our local union has always shown tremendous generosity to this cause year after year and I wanted to do what I can to help them in this fight.”
Gord Knowles, an Executive Board member who works at Laura’s YIG, said it’s a moving experience to see the families who participate at Light the Night. This year, Knowles said the experience of a relative who has been diagnosed has been on his mind.
“It's an opportunity to give back to our community,” said Knowles. “It is our charity of choice. At the union, we always help out others who need help and our fundraising is part of that effort and hopefully, one day, we will find a cure."
1006A is proud to support leukemia fundraising initiatives throughout the year, raising $51,006 in 2018. Initiatives include our annual Golf Tournament, raffles, and craft & bake sales. Thank you to everyone who has participated and supported the LLSC!
