Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my statement today is about a terrible disease that in one way or another affects most of us in this room and across our territory. I’m speaking, of course, about cancer. While cancer doesn’t strike everyone, it’s hard to find someone whose life hasn’t been affected by the disease. Most of us know someone who has lost someone to cancer, and for many of us it’s more personal than that. I, for one, lost my mother to this horrific disease back in 2003. Mr. Speaker, last year the Canadian Cancer Society anticipated almost 200,000 new cases of cancer and almost 80,000 deaths. About two out of five Canadians will develop cancer in their lifetime. One in four will die of this disease, but there is good news, Mr. Speaker. The fight against cancer continues to pick up steam every year. More than 60 per cent of people struck with cancer are still living five years after their diagnosis, and many go into full remission and go on to live full and productive lives, never having a bout with cancer again. This is due in large part to the advances being made in science and technology that have in turn allowed for earlier diagnoses and higher rates of successful treatment. In the cancer circles, we call this hope. Tomorrow in Yellowknife, volunteers, cancer survivors, friends, and loved ones will gather at the Canadian Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life up at William McDonald School. Teams or individuals walk the track, keeping the relay going all night to raise awareness and to raise money for the fight against cancer. The Relay for Life takes place in more than 300 communities across Canada and last year raised $34 million for cancer research, education, and patient support. I’ve been involved in the Yellowknife Relays for 13 years now, and it’s an honour and a pleasure to be part of such a strong group of community residents, giving their time, hard work, and dedication to help fight this disease. Mr. Speaker, cancer is a terrible disease and the number one cause of death for Canadians, but we must continue to fight against it through fundraising and research. Through those efforts, Mr. Speaker, I believe that cancer will be beaten. I ask everyone who can to please donate a small amount to support this great cause. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Masi. Members’ statements. Member for Deh Cho.
