Photo courtesy of Christine Gustafson.
Staff from the Wetaskiwin Community Health Centre (CHC) have raised over $2,000 for the Cross Cancer Institute (CCI) Volunteer Association, following a colleague’s cancer diagnosis.
Christine Gustafson’s breast cancer diagnosis required her to step away from her role as a public health area manager and site lead at the CHC.
After undergoing surgery, followed by a rigorous regimen of chemotherapy at the CCI in Edmonton, Gustafson was asked by several colleagues what they could do to help.
Long-time friend and co-worker LeaAnn Elder suggested a "bling sale” where colleagues could donate used jewelry and other accessories, housewares, and clothing, with proceeds going to a charity of Gustafson’s choice.
Around 40 colleagues from the CHC and Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre took part, raising more than $2,000.
Gustafson chose to donate the funds raised to the CCI’s Volunteer Association, as a thank-you for the site’s support throughout her experience.
“I remember walking into the Cross Cancer Institute for the very first time and being completely overwhelmed with how many people were being cared for at the CCI,” Gustafson said. “I was completely overwhelmed and just had so much gratitude for the amount of work that those volunteers do to support anybody going through cancer, it is truly a blessing.”
Amanda Rozon, manager of Volunteer Resources at CCI, said the volunteers are the heart and soul of the facility.
“We’re so thankful to have an amazing group of volunteers who come in weekly to enhance the amazing care the clinical teams provide,” she said. “From wayfinding to the van shuttle to the wig salon, our volunteers want to ensure they do what they can do to make the cancer journey easier.”
Financial donations help fund unique programs that continue to support patients.
“With the rising cost of living, our group appreciates every donation we receive — and are so grateful to our donors,” Rozon said.
Gustafson is humbled and incredibly grateful for the support she’s received from her colleagues.
“They say that your coworkers make your place of employment enjoyable and that honestly can't be true enough,” she said. “I'm incredibly lucky to work with each of these amazing individuals and be a part of this incredible team.”
**With information provided by Alberta Health Services
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