Gilda's Club Greater Toronto
Cancer support for the whole family,
the whole time
www.gildasclubtoronto.org
About Gilda's Club Greater Toronto
a free support community for anyone touched by cancer
Everyone is touched by cancer in one way or another. In the last 25 years, there have been dramatic advances in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This medical progress has also been accompanied by a profound awareness of the psychological and social impact of a cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship.
The Gilda's Club philosophy is based on the belief that a diagnosis of cancer affects the whole family, as well as friends, and that no one should have to face cancer alone. We believe that social and emotional support is as important as any cancer treatment, providing a place where men, women, teens and children living with cancer—as well as their friends and family—can join with others to build a strong community of support as a supplement to one's treatment of choice.
Gilda's Club is named for comedienne Gilda Radner, who died of ovarian cancer in 1986. While in treatment in the mid-'80s, Gilda visited a cancer support community in Los Angeles where she found others going through experiences similar to hers, and she drew strength and comfort from the supportiveness this provided. It was Gilda's dream that thousands of such support communities be available to anyone touched by cancer. Shortly after Gilda's death, that dream was realized and the first Gilda's Club opened in New York City.
Gilda's Club Greater Toronto opened its signature red doors in 2001 in the historic Old Firehall on Lombard Street in downtown Toronto. The building was beautifully renovated and provides a warm and welcoming environment complete with spacious community rooms, comfortable wellness rooms, a resource centre, a teen room and "Noogieland" – a fun and cheerful play space for children.
At Gilda's Club Greater Toronto, we offer a wide array of support groups, workshops, lectures and social events, with a multitude of activities to choose from each month. Alternatively, our doors are open to anyone who may simply need some peaceful time alone in any one of our cozy rooms.
We are proud to say that all of the activities at Gilda's Club are free of charge – they are supported through the generosity of foundations, corporations and individuals. We rely on the generosity of people just like you.
Please join us this year and register as a Gilda's Club supporter in the Scotiabank Group Charity Challenge. The first 200 registrants to raise $2000 in pledges win 2 tickets to our 2008 "It's Always Something" variety show.
Participate in the magic that is Gilda's Club — because no one should face cancer alone.
Thank you,
Judith Wiley
Chief Executive Officer
Gilda's Club Greater Toronto
Contact: 416-214-9898 or cheryl.hamel@gildasclubtoronto.org.
