We often read about Johns Hopkins Research Hospital and the Optimist International Cure Childhood Cancer Campaign on this blog, but what we usually don't say is that our Canadian Optimist Clubs do not donate to that effort.
Instead, the clubs in Canada support a campaign that keeps the money raised in Canada. Donations received pass through the Canadian Children's Optimist Foundation and on to the hospitals, research universities or families as designated by the contributing club.
This photo, provided by the Vanier Optimist Club in the Eastern Ontario District - Optimist International was an opportunity to explain that small difference with the junior hockey team, the Cumberland Bandits, giving their support to the cause.
In the special fundraising event on February 25, all proceeds from the door were donated to the Eastern Ontario fund to help build awareness of the disease and provide support to: children diagnosed and receiving treatment for cancer; families and care partners of children with cancer; healthcare and service providers; and research for cancer.
Unfortunately the Bandits lost the game, 5-6 to the Vankleek Hill Cougars, but everyone who participated left a winner knowing they had contributed to an important cause.
Thank you to the Vanier Optimist Club for the picture and story.
