The Canadian Cancer Society, Bluewater Community Office and Owen Sound Attack are delighted to announce that their inaugural Cubs for Cancer event raised $51,000 in support of childhood cancer.

The event, which took place on Monday, Nov. 20 and Saturday, Nov. 25 saw thousands of fans from across the province come together to support the cause.

The festivities kicked off on Nov. 20 when more than 20 people collected donations to shave their heads and cut their ponytails alongside four Attack players to show support for those undergoing cancer treatments. All ponytails donated will be made into wigs for local cancer patients to use.

The following Saturday, the Attack hosted the Guelph Storm in the Cubs For Cancer game which began with a ceremonial faceoff where Baywest Nissan presented a cheque for $7,200 to the Canadian Cancer Society. Joining Baywest Nissan at centre ice for there ceremony was Cubs For Cancer Jersey Design Contest winner, Sarah Coawan, and Tanner Morrison. Tanner, a two year old from Shallow Lake who is currently undergoing treatment for Retinoblastoma and using the Cancer Society's Family Transportation Program, was the evening's guest of honour and participated in the ceremonial puck drop with Attack Captain Jacob Friend and Storm Captain Garrett McFadden.

During the game, many activities were taking place, including a silent auction, chuck a puck, bucket pass, and merchandise sales. Immediately following the game, Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP, Bill Walker auctioned off the game worn Cubs for Cancer jerseys, and fans had a chance for autographs and photo-ops with the players.

Since the Canadian Cancer Society, Bluewater Community Office began partnering with the Owen Sound Attack in 2008, more than $290,000 has been raised in support of various cancer programs.

The Canadian Cancer Society and Owen Sound Attack would like to thank all sponsors, partners, volunteers, and fans who helped contribute to make this event such a success.

Childhood cancer is relatively uncommon. However, it remains the most common disease-related cause of death – more than asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and AIDS combined. It is second only to injury-related deaths among Canadian children.

Cancer in children creates a large impact on our health, economic and social welfare systems. It also places a burden on the child with cancer and their family. An estimated two-thirds of childhood cancer survivors will have at least one chronic or long-term side effect from their cancer treatment. As more children survive cancer, the need for long-term monitoring and follow-up care will continue to grow.

The Canadian Cancer Society is making progress, with the survival rate increasing to 83% from 66% in 1985. Their researchers have discovered better ways to detect earlier and well as helped find new ways to treat the various cancers children get.

source: media release, Owen Sound Attack