NEWSLETTER
August 2024
Summer has flown by, and it’s hard to believe that Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is just two weeks away!
As we gear up for this important time, we’d like to share a recap of everything that’s been happening this summer
The 23rd Annual Walk & HUG
Each Mother’s Day weekend, we are uplifted by the unwavering energy and dedication of our community. It’s truly heartwarming to see familiar faces return year after year, as well as to welcome new participants to our signature event, which has become a cherished tradition for many.
Over 1400 participants joined us for the 5k walk through Toronto!
This year, we introduced a new starting point at the stunning Hotel X, where its beautiful grounds provided the perfect backdrop to kick off the day. During the opening ceremonies before the Walk & HUG, we were inspired by the words of Dr. Peter Dirks, MBF Ambassador Sherry Holmes , and Dr. Akanksha Senapati, our newest MBF Neuro-oncology Fellow.
Crossing the finish line at SickKids, we were thrilled to gather once again on Elizabeth St., where we had a close-up view of the newly reconstructed Meagan Marie Bebenek Bridge.
This bridge connects the 2 buildings, embodying our “bench to bedside” philosophy.
Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Signature Walk & HUG.
We look forward to seeing you back at Hotel X on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, for the 24th annual event!
Let's Talk Cancer
On May 31st, we had the privilege of presenting to an audience of high school students at Let’s Talk Cancer, an annual event organized by the Canadian Cancer Society in partnership with Let’s Talk Science.
This year’s theme, “Health Disparities in Cancer,” focused on raising awareness about inequities in cancer treatment, diagnosis, and outcomes. The event highlighted ongoing efforts by researchers to overcome barriers and ensure equal access to care, particularly in underserved communities.
Our Director of Operations, Kara Simpson, showcased how MBF is addressing these gaps through initiatives like the Meagan Bebenek Foundation Neuro-Oncology Fellowship, Collaborative Seed Research Projects, and funding travel scholarships for physicians from low- and middle-income countries to attend ISPNO 2024.
2nd Annual Golf Tournament: Swing For Hope!
On June 25th, we returned to the picturesque Caledon Woods Golf Club for the 2nd Annual Golf Tournament:
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Participants enjoyed a delicious breakfast before setting out on the 18-hole course, with refreshments and snacks provided by our generous event partners to enjoy throughout. The day concluded with a banquet lunch, an exclusive silent auction, and heartfelt speeches that resonated with all attendees, reminding us of the importance of events like these and the real difference they make for children and families.
ISPNO 2024
(International Symposium of Paediatric Neuro-oncology)
Meagan Bebenek Foundation was proud to sponsor and attend ISPNO 2024 hosted in Philadelphia from June 29 - July 2. It was an honour to be among clinicians, researchers, and advocates in the paediatric neuro-oncology community.
We reunited with our MBF fellows, many who have since returned to their home countries or moved to other regions, bringing with them the invaluable knowledge and experience gained during their time at the BTRC.
Our current MBF Fellow, Dr. Akanksha Senapati, presented her groundbreaking research on infant medulloblastoma, which is advancing the understanding and treatment of these malignant brain tumours.
Community Events for
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Our community is coming together for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with a variety of events to support MBF. Visit our website to learn more about these exciting initiatives.
Interested in planning your own event?
Reach out to us at fundraising@meaganshug.com.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to return to the iconic El Mocambo for our 2nd annual Night of Discovery on Thursday, October 10th!
A Night of Discovery is a celebration of remarkable achievements in paediatric brain tumour research. The event honours leading experts whose work has driven significant breakthroughs and recognizes the brave children and families affected by these diagnoses. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with these incredible individuals while enjoying live music, gourmet food stations, and an open bar.
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