Twenty years ago, Nate heard the words no one expects or wants to hear: “You have cancer”. As a private person, he didn’t tell anyone other than close friends and family. But now, it’s important for him to share his story and encourage others to give what they can to support care for patients living with cancer.
When Nate was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CCL) in 2004, he was the mayor of Quesnel. He made the nearly eight-hour trek to St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver for testing; because his case wasn’t severe and CCL can be a slow-progressing cancer, doctors took a ‘watch and wait’ approach. Nate maintained an active lifestyle with careful monitoring, but eventually he needed chemotherapy in 2011 – a treatment he describes as “miraculous”. And he was able to receive it right in Quesnel.
By 2018, it was time for a new treatment option and doctors prescribed a medicine called Ibrutinib, which Nate takes to this day and picks up at his local hospital’s pharmacy. At 76 years old, Nate’s able to enjoy his favourite activities – including golf – because of the high-quality care he receives.
“I have lived an excellent life due to great physicians, good government policy, and Ibrutinib. I am very grateful,” he says. “I’m not the kind of person who likes to discuss my health issues, and now I feel I should give a bit back. I’ve donated a few dollars every year, but hoped to kickstart greater giving to celebrate the 20th anniversary of my diagnosis.”
Over last 20 years, cancer therapies have increased in complexity and one of the main issues is multi-drug resistance and relapse. Nate started a fundraiser to support a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist at St. Paul’s Hospital, who will manage cancer therapies administered to hematology patients. This position will help prevent adverse medication reactions, improve quality of life, and offer economic advantages.
In addition to a personal contribution, Nate offered to match gifts up to $750. His 2024 fundraising goal was $2,000 – an amount he doubled thanks to generous donations!
People like Nate are fundamental to our mission, and the funds they raise directly support patient care, medical equipment, research, and community programs across Providence Health Care hospitals and long-term care homes. In 2023 alone, third party fundraisers raised $59,000! St. Paul’s Foundation is extremely grateful for the efforts of community members who selflessly dedicate their time organizing fundraising events, which help advance world-leading compassionate care.
Learn more about how you can support by organizing a fundraising event of your own.