Colin Wilcox, chairman of the board for Central Plains Cancer Services (CPCS), announced his retirement following 27 years of leadership. A surprise party was held Wednesday at the CPCS office as they held a board meeting. Cake, champagne, and a commemorative sweatshirt were there to honour him.
Wilcox reflects on the organization’s origins, tracing back to 1998 when the Canadian Cancer Society closed its Portage la Prairie office.
"If you don’t like it, you can resign. So I did," Wilcox says. "I was very determined to work as hard against [the Canadian Cancer Society] as I had for them."
With community members Shirley McCullough, Pat Ewell, and Dr. Joe Stasiuk, Wilcox was one of the founders of the organization in March of 1999. The services put in-person support for cancer patients first, which is a stark contrast to the national body’s phone-based approach that was recommended before Wilcox spoke up. Under his leadership, CPCS expanded its programs, such as transportation services, cancer care initiatives for children, and free wigs for patients.
A legacy of grassroots impact
Wilcox emphasizes CPCS’s unique community-driven model. "We’re probably the only community across Canada that went against the Canadian Cancer Society," he notes. "Our money stays here for the betterment of Portage and the central plains."
Part of the growth of CPCS is due to its partnerships with local doctors for skin cancer clinics and a volunteer-driven ride program offering affordable access to Winnipeg treatments. Wilcox adds frontline staff like office coordinator Jody Lee for their compassionate work with families has very much been a great help for the community and surrounding area.
Gratitude and future vision
Sharilyn Knox, CPCS executive director, praises Wilcox’s enduring influence.
"He’s a great supporter of our team and promotes this organization everywhere he can," Knox adds. "We thank him for the time he’s put in and wish him well in retirement."
CPCS continues to operate independently, funding local cancer support programs through community donations and radiothons. Wilcox’s departure marks the end of an era, but the organization reaffirms its commitment to serving central Manitoba.