Support Lung Cancer Canada with an Evening of Hope

My friend and colleague, Philip Clarke, a seemingly healthy and vibrant individual, was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer on November 12, 2012. Fourteen months later, on February 7, 2014, at the age of 48, Philip lost his battle.  The diagnosis was a shock to Philip, and to his family, friends and colleagues. But the shock soon turned to a devastating reality as we began to learn and understand the prognosis.

Once diagnosed, Philip was determined to learn all he could about lung cancer.  He focused his time and energy supporting Lung Cancer Canada who work tirelessly on behalf of the one in 12 Canadians who will be diagnosed with lung cancer in their lifetime. I recall his incredible frustration when he discovered that survival rates for lung cancer patients have not really changed over the past 20 years, that no screening program exists and that new drug approvals to treat lung cancer patients trail far behind.

Philip was fiercely committed to raising funds and awareness for lung cancer.  It was from his unwavering commitment, and the strong desire of everyone who loved Philip and felt helpless in their efforts to support him in his steadfast resolve to beat this disease, that the inaugural Evening of Hope fundraiser was held in Ottawa on November 21, 2013.

A few weeks before he died, Philip made me promise to continue fundraising efforts.  He said he did not want anyone else to endure what he and his family had endured during his 14-month battle. The promise will not be broken and we will continue in earnest to raise funds and awareness. The second annual Evening of Hope will be held in Ottawa on Thursday, November 20, 2014, at the Ottawa Convention Centre.

The Convention Centre’s talented kitchen brigade will be creating palate-pleasing and beautifully presented small selections, with wine provided by our wine sponsor, Cattail Creek Family Estate Winery, and a selection of beers provided by Turtle Island Brewing Company, Perth Brewery and Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company. Also sponsoring the event is All Seniors Care and Systemscope.

Musical guests Stay Tuned! are ‘back by popular demand’ after wowing last year’s guests with their lively, entertaining, party-style jazz. Hippie Campfire, a new addition to the event, will take to the stage later in the evening performing their hybrid blend of funk, rock, folk and power groove. Two amazing live performances by two amazing and unique local acts who are donating their time and musical talents to help raise funds for and awareness of lung cancer.

Tickets for this amazing event in support of Lung Cancer Canada, the only national organization in Canada focused exclusively on lung cancer education, advocacy and patient support, are only $100 each, and a $20 tax receipt will be issued for each ticket purchased.  Tickets are limited so get yours now.  They can be purchased online at: http://ottawaeveningofhope4lcc.com/.

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to the event, tweet @ottawalifers and @ottawaeveofhope telling us who you would bring!

Written By Louise Bowles