Over $1 million has been raised for brain cancer research in Canada following The Tragically Hip's recent tour.
In an emotional response to the announcement that front-man Gord Downie has glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer that currently has no cure, thousands of fans joined together to raise funds through events and donations for the Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and for the Canadian Cancer Society.
To date, almost $800,000 has been donated to the Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research at Sunnybrook. This fund will give brain cancer researchers the tools to help beat brain cancers that are currently unbeatable. Right now, Sunnybrook scientists are investigating new drugs, surgical techniques and genetic therapies. They are using ultrasound to help drugs reach tumours that couldn't be reached before. The funds raised this past summer will help brain scientists conduct ground-breaking research that benefits patients not only across Canada but around the world.
“At Sunnybrook and at cancer centres across the globe, we are making important advances in brain tumour treatment, and support like this helps us continue our work,” said Dr. James Perry, head of neurology at Sunnybrook. “To all those who have donated to brain cancer research, thank you.”
The Canadian Cancer Society has received close to $400,000 in honour of Mr. Downie and The Tragically Hip. “We are overwhelmed at how Canadians rallied together this summer and are very thankful for their generosity,” said Dr. Siân Bevan, vice-president of research at the Canadian Cancer Society. “These funds will support clinical trials at the Canadian Cancer Trials Group, which is currently supporting six active brain cancer clinical trials, involving 421 patients, testing new ways to treat or manage cancer.”
The internationally-renowned Canadian Cancer Trials Group is based out of Queen’s University in the band’s hometown of Kingston, Ontario. This cooperative oncology group coordinates clinical trials in cancer therapy, supportive care and prevention at cancer centres and hospitals across the country.
At the Meridian Centre alone, the broadcast of the August 20th concert raised over $7000.